I forgot to ask this in my last post…..
Does anyone know the difference between an Accomodation and a Modification and does it make a significant difference on an IEP?
My understanding is that an Accomodation is something that can be done for the whole class (giving short one or two step instructions, providing study sheets, etc.) and ultimately help the LD student to do better while a Modification is something that has to be done for a specific student (wheelchair ramps, specific software training, etc.)
Thanks
Cindy
Re: Accomodation versus Modification
A quick and easy eay to remember is: accommodations are changes to HOW
(how to assess, how to teach,etc.) and modifications are changes to WHAT
(number of spelling words each week, number of homework assigmments, content of report)
From a web site:
An accommodation is any technique that alters the academic setting or environment to help a student access the curriculum and validly demonstrate learning. An accommodation generally does not change the information, amount of information learned, or performance criteria. It merely provides the extra time, (Extended time should mean just that. Remember, you are testing what the student needs to know in order to master a particular grade level standard. You should allow that student ANY amount of time necessary to complete it. Keep track of who has what to complete or turn in on a chalkboard to give them a visual reminder of what they have to do.), the special setting, and/or the added assistance that enable learning and accurately assesses the student’s real knowledge rather than the assessment of the disability.
A modification is any technique that alters the work required in some way that makes it different from the work required of other students in the same class. The changes include changes in instructional level, content, and performance criteria, as well as changes in test form or format. A modification encourages and facilitates academic success. A modification may change the work format or amount of work required of a student. It helps the student with a broader array of academic tasks and, like some accommodations, allows for more accurate assessment of the student’s true knowledge.
(Note: regarding standarized testing not everyone agrees on what is an accommodation and what is a modification. It is not clear-cut.)