Hi! I am a pre-service teacher searching for advice. In my University class, we are learning that learning disabled students should be placed in the least restrictive environment. If a LD student is placed in my general classroom, how can I accomodate the classroom environment to suit his or her needs? Specifically, what can I do to make my classroom a least restrictive environment? Any suggestions or opinions are greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Re: Classroom Environment
In my experience, there are a few things that can be done that go a long way towards creating a classroom where LD children can experience success.
Do not give timed tests. Allow students as much time as they might need.
Do not require memorization. Memorization is unfairly difficult for children with reading issues.
Plan inviting and intriguing lessons. Avoid always sitting still in long straight rows classes.
Remember that children are children and need play in every day.
Keep homework to a minimum. LD children often struggle with homework.
If possible, don’t grade. Grades create a hierarchy in the classroom that can exclude LD children and is often unfair to them.
That you ask such a good question is the sign of a good teacher. Any school and its children will be fortunate to have you teaching there-
Re: Classroom Environment
Thank you Sara for your input. It was very valuable and helped me a great deal with my assignment. Thanks again!
see the message with the same title below.
Sometimes the general ed classroom is NOT the LRE — if you have a kid who can’t read, what he *really* needs is to be taught to read.