# data[].attributes.headline
Grammar, Spelling, Handwriting Lesson Plan

# data[].attributes.subject
Grammar, Spelling, Handwriting Lesson Plan

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Distinguishing formal evaluation from informal assessment can be challenging. For one, both methods use similar tools like quizzes and surveys. But how they apply these tools to specific questions separates one from the other.

In this article, we will consider 15 key similarities and differences between formal and informal assessments.

What is a Formal Assessment?

Depending on the context, formal assessments can be norm-referenced or criterion-referenced. For example, if you want to know how a learner's score compares to the average class score, then a norm-referenced is your best bet.

What is Informal Assessment?

Informal assessment is an intuitive evaluation method, where the teacher assesses students without measuring their performance against some rubric or metric. The structure of informal evaluation methods allows teachers to observe the student's progress at different points in the learning period.

The instructor can also ask students to take part in group quizzes or brief presentations about a particular subject. Informal assessments allow instructors to provide immediate feedback to students and address any learning gaps in time.
Read: Motivation Assessment: Definitions, Types, Tools + [Questionnaire Examples]
Differences Between Formal and Informal Assessments

Definitions

A formal assessment is an evaluation method that uses a grading system to score a student's level of knowledge. Typically, students respond to the same questions under the same conditions, and the instructor grades them based on the extent to which they satisfied pre-defined requirements.

An informal assessment measures students' progress and performance with no standard grading criteria. The instructor uses different methods that allow students to show their knowledge while providing feedback on learning gaps.

Types

Common types of informal assessment include quizzes, writing samples, and project-based assignments. In informal assessment, quizzes are used to improve class engagement and participation. So, you'd find the instructor splitting the class into groups while every student has a go at the questions.

Project-based assignments and writing samples are intertwined. For example, the teacher can ask students to create a science project and write a summary of their ideas for the project.

Examples

Common examples of formal assessment include tests, quizzes, surveys, and questionnaires. Exit surveys, observation, and oral presentations are examples of informal assessment.

In some sense, formal and informal assessments can use the same methods. What matters is how the instructor applies these methods to achieve specific objectives. For example, the structure of a quiz for formal assessment significantly differs from a quiz for informal evaluation.

When to Use

Teachers use formal assessments when they want to determine students' knowledge based on specific standards and criteria. Instructors use traditional assessment methods when they need factual data that qualifies a student for the best learning phase, for example, moving from high school to college.

Advantages of Formal Assessment Over Informal Assessment

Since formal assessments have standard evaluation criteria, there's little or no opportunity for examiner bias. This differs significantly from informal evaluations, where the instructor's subjectivity determines how they rate the student and the type of feedback given.

Another advantage of formal assessment over informal evaluation is it spurs students to pay keener attention during classes. Since a formal assessment is high stakes, it motivates students to perform better to get higher grades.

Also, formal evaluation determines whether a student moves to the next phase in the learning process. An individual who wants to gain admission into college needs to ace the required promotional examination.

Advantages of Informal Assessment Over Formal Assessments

Also, informal assessment gives room for improvement, unlike one-off tests. Since there's little or nothing at stake, students can make mistakes and improve their knowledge without undue pressure. Informal evaluation methods allow students to explore different angles of a particular subject.

Use of a Grading System

The significant difference between both forms of assessment is while formal evaluation uses a rubric or standard assessment criteria, the other doesn't. A rubric is an assessment tool used for judging a particular type of work. More than stating different grade levels, a rubric provides details on the requirements for each grade.

During informal assessments, the instructor doesn't use a set of predetermined criteria for grading. Instead, they compare a student's performance with their past presentations to know if they've made any progress.

Purpose of Assessment

The formal evaluation aims to assess a student's overall knowledge, usually at the end of a learning experience. Sometimes, formal assessments allow the instructor to compare a student's performance with others in the same age group or class.

Informal assessment is used to track learners' progress and identify any challenges they might face with the subject.

Scope

Formal assessments provide a broad view of a student's knowledge, while informal assessments provide detailed information. In formal evaluation, the instructor measures a student's performance at the surface level. The aim is to have enough evidence for assigning a specific score and grade to the learner.

Informal assessments are different. It allows the instructor to do a thorough analysis of the specific experiences of individual students. The teacher can make adjustments to instructional methods based on the specialized needs of each learner.

Flexibility

The instructor can adjust informal assessments based on context and the specific needs or set of students. For example, if a student cannot communicate their thoughts via summary writing, the teacher might ask them to give an oral presentation.

A formal assessment uses well-defined criteria for performance evaluation. So, the instructor cannot deviate from the grading system, even if this system doesn't work for some students.

Score Comparison

Depending on the type of formal assessment, the instructor might compare students' performances in the same class or age group. However, for informal evaluation, the instructor assesses students individually. While the instructor might compare a student's present performance with their past ones, there's no room for student-to-student comparison.

Tools

For formal assessments, an essential tool is a rubric or some other well-defined grading system. Formal assessments also use online quiz platforms, surveys, questionnaires, or presentation tools like Google Slides and PowerPoint. Teachers use straw polls, exit surveys, and observation methods for informal assessment on the flip side.

Similarities Between Informal and Formal Assessment

Feedback

Another thing to note here is feedback is always personalized in informal assessment, while formal assessment can provide generic feedback to students at different grades. For example, the instructor can send a general feedback email to everyone who scored a "B" in a test.

Educational Assessment

Instructional Needs

Teachers use formal and informal assessments to improve their instructional methods. Based on results and feedback from both forms of educational assessment, educational stakeholders can change the subject curriculum, grading system, and instructional design for the classes.

How to Use Formplus as an Online Assessment Tool

Formplus allows you to create quizzes, polls, surveys, and questionnaires for formal and informal evaluation as an online assessment tool. Here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to do this.

Step 1: Log into your Formplus account.

Step 2: On the dashboard, choose the "create new form" button. This takes you to the form builder.

Step 3: On the left side of the builder, you'd find different form field options like rating scales, text fields, and other advanced fields like signature and payment fields.

Step 4: Click any field you'd want to add to your form. Alternatively, you can drag-and-drop fields into the work area from the builder's inputs section.

Step 5: After adding the fields, click on the edit icon beside each to access the editing tab. Here, you can add the specific questions to each field and make other changes like setting fields as "compulsory" or "read-only."

Step 6: Click on the "save" icon, so you don't lose all the changes you've made. This also takes you to the builder's customization section automatically.

Step 7: Use the different options in the customization section to change the appearance of your form. Since you're using this for assessments, it's a great idea to add your school's logo to the survey or questionnaire. You can also create a custom theme from scratch for your form.

Step 8: Go to the "share" section and choose your preferred form sharing option. You can copy the form link or share it via email invitations.
Conclusion
When it's time to choose one form of educational assessment over the other, the most important thing teachers should consider is context. Ask questions like, "what do I want to achieve with this?" and "how does this fit into the existing learning system?"

In many cases, teachers combine formal and informal assessment methods for evaluation. During the learning process, informal evaluation methods like concept mapping and straw polls help the instructor track each student's progress. At the end of the learning period, the instructor uses formal evaluations like end-of-term examinations to assess each student's knowledge and make high-stakes decisions.

Create Assessments with Formplus for Free

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Formal vs. Informal Assessment: 15 Key Differences & Similarities

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Distinguishing formal evaluation from informal assessment can be challenging. For one, both methods use similar tools like quizzes and surveys. But how they apply these tools to specific questions separates one from the other. In this article, we will consider 15 key similarities and differences between formal and informal assessments.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Administering informal assessments on a regular basis throughout the school year provides useful information that can help teachers to identify the individual strengths and weakness of each student — and most importantly, guide the next steps in instruction.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
27 Formative Assessment Tools for Your Classroom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this post, you will find 27 Formative Assessment Tools for Your Classroom! Formative assessment is such an essential part of the learning process and student success, and many digital tools can help support this process.This list has a wide variety of features and options to help you solidify your formative assessment strategies! Many of the tools below are great for both formative and summative assessments.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Formal, Informal, and Neutral

Language register is the level and style of your writing. It should be appropriate for the situation you are in.

Click Here for Step-by-Step Rules, Stories and Exercises to Practice All English Tenses

The language register determines the vocabulary, structure, and some grammar in your writing.

The three most common language registers in writing are:
We usedifferent language registers for different types of writing, just as we speak differently to different people. You would not speak to the President of the United States the same way you would talk to your brothers.

To your brother: What's up? It's awesome that you came to visit!

To the President: Good morning, Mr. President. We appreciate your visit.

The formal register is more appropriate for professional writing and letters to a boss or a stranger.

The informal register (also called casual or intimate) is conversational and appropriate when writing to friends and people you know very well.

The neutral register is non-emotional and sticks to facts. It is most appropriate for technical writings.

In articles such as these, we tend to mix the formal and informal registers to present the information in an easy to understand and personal tone.

Let's look closely at the three most common language registers used in the English language.

Formal Language Register

Formal writing is probably the most difficult type of writing. It is impersonal, meaning it is not written for a specific person and is written without emotion.

Some kinds of writing are always written in formal English.

Formal writing includes:

Business Letters

Letters of complaint

Some essays

Reports

Official speeches

Announcements

Professional emails

There are many rules for writing in formal writing. We will discuss some of the most common rules here. When in doubt, check the rules in an APA style guide.
Rules of the formal language register:

1. Do not use contractions

Contractions are not usually used in formal writing, even though they are very common in spoken English.

In formal writing, you should spell out contractions.
In formal writing, you should use:
These are just a few examples of contractions. See more contractions by following the contraction link above.

Contractions CAN be used if you are quoting someone's exact words in your writing.

"Two-thirds of my eighth grade students can't read at grade level," the professor stated.

Keep in mind that an apostrophe does not always make a contraction.

Apostrophes are also added to nouns to show ownership. These are used in all language registers, including formal.

2. Spell out numbers less than one hundred

In formal writing, we usually do not use first person or second person unless it is a quote.

In formal writing it is better to use an active voice.

Passive sentences: Active sentences:

The bone was eaten by the dog.

The research was completed by the students in 2009.

The students completed the research in 2009.

In 2009, the students completed the research.

For example, in a rule above I wrote, "Apostrophes are also added to nouns to show ownership."
I wrote this sentence in a passive voice.

To make it active, I could write:

"Additionally, add an apostrophe to a noun to show ownership."

OR

"Use apostrophes with nouns to show ownership."

5. Avoid using slang, idioms, exaggeration (hyperboles) and clichés

Slang is common in informal writing and spoken English. Slang is particular to a certain region or area.

Examples of slang:

A cliché is a phrase that is overused (said too often).

Common clichés:

too much of a good thing

moment of truth

Time is money.

Don't push your luck.

Beauty is only skin deep.

6. Avoid abbreviations and acronyms

If you use an acronym or abbreviation, write it out the first time

When using acronyms, write the entire name out the first time it appears, followed by the acronym. From then on, you can use the acronym by itself.

Examples:

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT)

For abbreviations, write the complete word the first time, then use the abbreviation.
Examples:

influenza => flu

United States of America => U.S.A or USA

tablespoon => tbsp.

Kansas => KS

Do not use slang abbreviations or symbols that you would use in friendly emails and texts.

7. Do not start sentences with words like and, so, but, also

Here are some good transition words and phrases to use in formal writing:

Nevertheless

Additionally

However

In addition

As a result of

Although

8. Always write in complete sentences.

9. Write longer, more complex sentences.

Informal Language Register

Informal writing is written in the way we talk to our friends and family. We use informal writing when we are writing to someone we know very well.

Some kinds of writing can be written in an informal style.

Informal writing includes:

Personal e-mails

Phone texts

Short notes

Friendly letters

Most blogs

Diaries and journals

There are no major rules to informal writing.
With informal writing, you can include things such as:

Neutral Language Register

We use the neutral language register with non-emotional topics and information.

Neutral writing is not necessarily formal or informal. It is not usually positive or negative. A neutral register is used to deliver facts.

Some writings are written in a neutral register. This means they are not specifically formal or informal.

Writing in the natural language register includes:

Reviews

Articles

Some letters

Some essays

Technical writing

These were the types of Language Register. Now that you know them, it is time to practice! Get our ESL Books!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Language Register - Formal, Informal, and Neutral

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Language register is the level and style of your writing. It should be appropriate for the situation you are in. Click Here for Step-by-Step Rules, Stories and Exercises to Practice All English Tenses The language register determines the vocabulary, structure, and some grammar in your writing.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
For some students, knowing when to use formal or informal language comes naturally. For others, it is a skill that must be taught in steps. This post offers six teaching ideas from recognizing what is formal and informal to creating formal and informal texts. Start by getting the handout Formal vs Informal Language using the link below.
Get the printable version of these activities.
Activity #1 - Recognizing Formal vs Informal Language

Grammar/Slang/
Colloquialisms

Activity #2 - Situations that Call for Formal vs Informal Language

Sort these types of text based on if they should be written formally or informally.

Activity #3 - Sorting Passages by Formal vs Informal Language

In this activity, students will evaluate 6 short passages to determine if they are written formally or informally.

We went to Boston for the weekend. Lots to tell you.

Dear Melissa,

My family and I went to Boston for the weekend. I am looking forward to telling you about our trip when I see you.

I went to the senior center this afternoon to visit my grandfather. I wish he could come back home. My family is bothered that he is not living with us.

I went to the old folks' home this afternoon to see Grandpa. I wish he could come back home. I'm fed up with that stupid place.

I cannot believe that you were able to build a rocket ship from scrap metal. It does look well-built. I agree that this unusual vehicle might actually fly.

You made a what? You've got to be kidding! OK, alright, your crazy contraption might actually work.

Activity #4 - Sequencing Variants of Casual to Formal

In this activity, students take six ways of saying the same thing and order them from least casual to most formal. Answers will vary with this activity. The discussion from the exercise is great. The purpose is to get students thinking.

Take it easy.

I'm out of here.

I gotta hit the road.

See you later.

Have a nice day.

I look forward to our next meeting.

Set #2 - Ways of Saying Congratulations

Congratulations on your well-deserved success.

So pleased to see you accomplishing great things.

Nothing can stop you now.

Keep up the great job!

Activity #5 - Comparing Two Passages from Literature

Use the discussion questions provided to determine if these short excerpts from well-known novels are written formally or informally.

"It is the child no one ever saw!" exclaimed the man, turning to his companions. "She has actually been forgotten!"

"Why was I forgotten?" Mary said, stamping her foot. "Why does nobody come?"

The young man whose name was Barney looked at her very sadly. Mary even thought she saw him wink his eyes as if to wink tears away.

"Poor little kid!" he said. "There is nobody left to come."

It was in that strange and sudden way that Mary found out that she had neither father nor mother left; that they had died and been carried away in the night, and that the few native servants who had not died also had left the house as quickly as they could get out of it, none of them even remembering that there was a Missie Sahib. That was why the place was so quiet. It was true that there was no one in the bungalow but herself and the little rustling snake.

Excerpt from Alice in Wonderland

Down, down, down. Would the fall never come to an end? "I wonder how many miles I've fallen by this time?" she said aloud. "I must be getting somewhere near the center of the earth. Let me see: that would be four thousand miles down. I think-" (for, you see, Alice had learnt several things of this sort in her lessons in the schoolroom, and though this was not a very good opportunity for showing off her knowledge, as there was no one to listen to her, still it was good practice to say it over) "-yes, that's about the right distance-but then I wonder what Latitude or Longitude I've got to?" (Alice had no idea what Latitude was, or Longitude either, but thought they were nice grand words to say.)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Teaching Formal vs Informal Language - Book Units Teacher

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Check out six teaching ideas for formal vs informal language including printables you can use with your upper elementary students.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Innoventure Jr: Formal and Informal Communication

# data[].attributes.headline
Tools/Resources for Students with Special Needs

# data[].attributes.subject
Tools/Resources for Students with Special Needs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Teaching and Learning / English Language Development (ELD)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Constructing Meaning provides teachers with the process and tools for weaving explicit language instruction into content-area teaching. Lesson planning is driven by the content and academic language demands of discipline-specific learning. Based on backward design and a gradual release of responsibility model, the Constructing Meaning process prompts teachers to:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A bilingual site for educators and families of English language learners

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
UNIVERSAL DESIGN FOR LEARNING FOR SOCIAL STUDIES

The philosophy that educational excellence is achieved by offering multiple paths to understanding is vividly illustrated by the talk by L. Todd Rose called The Myth of Average.

To make the learning of History and Social Studies accessible for all, educators have increasingly built upon the research program of CAST, the organization that first articulated and developed the framework of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Primary sources-including from the Library of Congress-offer distinctive, powerful, flexible tools to expand choices and means of access that support and mesh well with UDL principles.

Minarik & Lintner, p. 45. Adapted from Glenna Gustafson and Tamara Wallace, "Radford University Lesson Planning Template with UDL," 2010.

UDL draws upon brain-based research on learning to encourage educators to provide multiple means of engagement, representation, expression and action for all students. (A good place to start is CAST's detailed graphic explaining the three principles: UDL Guidelines.)

Emerging America courses employ a UDL + Cultural Considerations checklist as a lesson plan design tool (see box) from Darren Minarik and Timothy Lintner's excellent book, Social Studies and Exceptional Learners, published by the National Council for the Social Studies. (2016). Their checklist reminds us to incorporate all three elements of UDL, with a fourth element, "Cultural Considerations." Find many examples of accessible lesson plans with checklist completed in our library of Teaching Resources.

Engagement

Princess at a Puerto Rican festival
in Lowell, Massachusetts.
Mario Monteno. 1987.
​​​​​​Library of Congress.
https://www.loc.gov/item/awhbib000060/

Students engage with course content in many ways. Deepen ownership and engagement through personalized content, a variety of classroom activities, thoughtful attention to the size and structure of learning groups, access to authentic community resources, and especially through student choice.

Note that while choice of activities is vital, many students need for their choices to occur within consistent, repeated classroom routines. Always present clear goals and instructions, and provide timely and focused support.

Select topics and materials with intrinsic student interest, such as:

primary sources that feature voices, perspectives, or experiences of young people (journals, newspaper accounts, photos, or artwork)

topics connected to current events

questions and topics with flair

Personalize content to maximize student interest:

topics of study that have cultural relevance to the student's own environment, heritage, location, or situation

topics or sources in an area of interest or mastery of the student

Include experiential activities:

Students pair up to analyze sources, and complete reports in graphic organizers.

Small groups of students rotate between stations in the room to examine a variety of primary sources.

Individuals, pairs, or teams conduct research on independent projects-with strong and directed teacher support where needed.

Groups or the whole class researches and plans service-learning and civic engagement projects to address real community needs.

Model Lesson for Engagement: In Puerto Rican Identity, students examine documents and other primary sources showing various generations of Puerto Ricans engaging with Anglo-American culture while preserving their cultural identity.
Cultural Considerations:
An essential facet of engagement is to ensure that materials and approaches are culturally relevant for the particular students in your classroom.

Culturally Relevant Pedagogy Using Primary Sources instructional videos from the Minnesota Historical Society:

Overview (with intro) (10:05 min:sec)

Motivating Students toward Success (with intro) (9:11 mins.)

Tap Students Cultural Competence (with intro) (9:04 mins.)

Examine the Status Quo (with intro) (10:10 mins.)

Representation

Educators who follow Universal Design for Learning principles provide multiple ways to represent concepts to students of differing ability levels. When working with primary sources, teachers present a variety of sources and employ varied tools to examine them.

Above and beyond the call of duty-
Dorie Miller received the Navy Cross
at Pearl Harbor. David S. Marin. 1943.
Library of Congress.
https://www.loc.gov/item/93505848/

Primary source representations can include:

Text passages (with related translations and transcriptions)

Forms or government documents

Personal narratives and letters

Newspapers, books, and reports

Maps and blueprints

Photos, paintings, drawings

Cartoons and posters, including symbolism and captions

Sound recordings of interviews or of songs

Real artifacts from the past or reproductions of tools, household goods, or personal items

Secondary sources and teaching techniques help vary representation:

Teacher presentations, with or without audiovisual aids

Text presentation, including textbooks, non-fiction books, period fiction and poetry, or historical novels

Produced audio and video, with mix of sounds and images (podcasts, films)

Maps, including conceptual maps as well as a variety of geographic formats

Graphic organizers that use text and groups of lists

Manipulative models and representations (for example: laminated shapes placed on maps, color coded to represent categories of data)

Whole-body activities, such as standing in groups to represent economic data, or acting out a courtroom scene

Graphic organizers that use spatial relationships, diagrams, and aggregate charts.

Table of Visualization Methods
Data, Information, Concept,
Strategy, and Metaphor visualizations.
Ralph Lengler & Martin J. Eppler.
www.visual-literacy.org

Making Classroom Participation More Equitable With Hand Gestures - Edutopia.

Model Lesson for Representation: Japan's Attack on Pearl Harbor uses oral histories from the Japanese Internment Camps and a mix of maps and other documents to examine American reactions to the Pearl Harbor bombing.
Resources for Representation:
Tools and approaches for Representation are woven throughout the EmergingAmerica.org pages on Disability History through Primary Sources, Assistive Technology, and Inquiry Strategies.

Thinking Maps by David Hylerle presents a coherent strategy for developing and using graphic organizers that supports learning across grades and subjects.

The Periodic Table of Visual Representation Methods chart links to dozens of options for graphic presentation. See the options in list form here.

Creek, J. (n.d.). "How to Make an Infographic" Videos & step-by-step guide. Periodic Presidents.

Action and Expression

The critical element is to create alternatives that allow students to show different strengths and to pursue paths around barriers to understanding and expression.

Ensure that assessments offer choices of mode and-where possible-of subject. See options for Assessment. Developing alternatives-and additions-to expository writing as the default means to communicate learning in History and Social Sciences enhances learning for all students. Students need opportunities to express themselves in written and spoken word, visuals, movement, objects, and technology. Primary sources can stimulate thinking and broaden means of expression.

Alternative forms of expression of learning might include:

drawing simple (or elaborate!) comic strips or graphic novel pages

preparing skits, radio-play episodes, or talking tableau presentations

writing diary entries or letters in the persona of an individual from the events being studied

creating annotated maps or diagrams showing places or events under study

preparing posters or political cartoons that advertise, educate, dramatize, or persuade

creating a data summary (weather data, population data, widows pension applications, number of ships, etc.)

Action is a powerful catalyst to learning, and incorporating movement and gesture into lessons can improve student engagement and learning outcomes. (See the research base in " How Movement and Gestures Can Improve Student Learning.")

Students hunger for means to have a voice and an impact on their world. Help students to learn the skills and dispositions of civic engagement through Civic Engagement Projects. And explore the options for service-learning projects, such as our own Windows on History project.

Model Lesson for Expression: In Monuments in Washington D.C., students design a brochure of the Monuments of Washington D.C.

Resources for Expression: See Assessment Strategies in the Accessing Inquiry pages for detailed ideas and tools.

Lincoln Memorial. Under Construction. (1915).
Harris & Ewing. Library of Congress
"https://www.loc.gov/item/2016866965/"

UDL Teaching Strategies for the Classroom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
UNIVERSAL DESIGN FOR LEARNING FOR SOCIAL STUDIES The philosophy that educational excellence is achieved by offering multiple paths to understanding is vividly illustrated by the talk by L. Todd Rose called The Myth of Average.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Almost two decades ago, through a reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, emerged the idea that students may need different degrees of support to achieve the same academic outcomes.

When Congress last reauthorized the law, it included an amendment called " response to intervention," also known as RTI. The initial purpose was to help school personnel develop better strategies to identify students with learning disabilities.

In addition to testing a student on an IQ test or an achievement test, to see if they had learning disabilities, RTI encouraged educators to try to teach that child in a more intensive way and monitor their response to that, according to Doug Fuchs, the Nicholas Hobbs Chair of Special Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University. And if the response was strong, that was an argument that the student should not be identified for an individualized education program, or IEP.

Eventually, educators adapted the principles of RTI to general education, putting into place different tiers of support for all students, and what is now known as a multi-tiered system of supports, or MTSS, developed.

MTSS essentially offers students who have learning, social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties in general classrooms personalized instruction or support that matches the level of help they need to stay on pace with their peers. If they don't make sufficient progress, MTSS models require districts to intensify personalized support. Each tier in the framework is supposed to represent a level of intensity of instructional or other support. MTSS is often used in districts as an approach to offer students mental health support, experts said.

What is MTSS?

Multi-tiered systems of supports, known as MTSS, are a framework meant to support students in achieving their best possible academic and social-emotional outcomes. MTSS models include tiers of instructional and other kinds of support, so that all students can make progress by getting the kind of education that meets their needs.

In theory, each student's needs should be addressed by one of the MTSS tiers. If the tiered system proves inadequate, MTSS should help educators identify which students might need special education services.

"MTSS ... is really thinking about, how do we organize our resources-the academic support and the behavioral, social, emotional, and counseling supports-in a school system to make sure that students are getting what they need?" said Rebecca Zumeta Edmonds, managing researcher at the American Institutes of Research, and director of the National Center on Intensive Intervention, a federally funded center focused on helping students who have the most severe and persistent academic and behavioral support needs.

What are the tiers of MTSS?

Generally, MTSS has three tiers.

Tier 1 is core instruction, which all students receive. Most MTSS models say that 80 percent of students should have their instructional needs met through Tier 1, according to Fuchs. Tier 1 should also include social-emotional learning components, according to MTSS4Success, a nonprofit center that supports districts implementing the framework.

At Tier 2, schools should provide small group instruction for students struggling to learn at Tier 1. Tier 2 can include behavioral or mental health supports, if necessary. Of the 20 percent of students who need Tier 2 interventions, 15 percent should have their educational needs met at Tier 2, Fuchs said.

For the five percent of students who don't respond to Tier 2, schools can offer Tier 3, or intensive intervention, individualized based on each student's needs. There is no specific program, but Tier 3 should be based on evaluating why a student is struggling and meeting their academic and social-emotional needs, according to MTSS4Success.

How widespread is MTSS?

MTSS is used on some level in virtually every U.S. state and territory, according to Zumeta Edmonds. Thousands of districts use MTSS, according to Panorama Education, an organization that supports districts implementing the framework, but there is no national data to track district-level use.

Most state education agencies offer their schools some level of guidance on using MTSS. Districts then choose to implement MTSS to varying degrees, Zumeta Edmonds said. Schools may also use an MTSS approach to students' mental health and behavior without applying to academics, she said.

At least one state-South Carolina-mandates the use of MTSS in elementary schools, according to Mitch Yell, a professor of special education at the University of South Carolina. Whether mandating that districts implement MTSS leads to better educational outcomes is still unknown, he said.

Sometimes, a school or district may choose to implement MTSS for a specific content area, such as reading. Others will attempt to do a more comprehensive implementation that involves literacy, mathematics, behavior, and social-emotional supports.

Most commonly, districts will implement the MTSS framework for meeting students' social-emotional needs, she said.

How does MTSS relate to special education?

MTSS began as RTI, which was meant as a special education reform, Fuchs said.

It was intended to replace the older model of comparing students' IQ to their test scores and labeling students at the low end of the spectrum as having learning disabilities, according to Yell.

Now that MTSS applies to general education, it can help teachers better identify which students struggle with persistent learning or behavioral challenges. The teams devoted to developing Individualized Education Programs for special education students can use data collected through MTSS evaluations as part of that process, and develop IEPs based on the data collected through MTSS evaluations, according to Zumeta Edmonds.

"Special education can and should be part of the MTSS system and very often that most intensive level of supports can be, or in some cases should be, special education," she said.

Tessie Bailey, principal consultant for the American Institutes for Research and director of the federally funded PROGRESS Center, which conducts research and advocates for students with disabilities, previously told Education Week that MTSS can help students with learning disabilities be identified earlier.

"The intent is to prevent poor learning outcomes, which means we identify kids earlier so they have supports," Bailey said.

MTSS has contributed to the early identification of learning disabilities and helped keep the numbers of students with learning disabilities in check, even as the numbers of students in special education have increased, Bailey said.

What's the difference between an IEP and MTSS?

An individualized education program, or IEP, is a program developed in collaboration with the district and a student's family for every student with disabilities. Only students with disabilities who need special education services can get IEPs, whereas MTSS is a general framework for all students.

However, an MTSS framework can help educators determine which students may need IEPs for learning disabilities or behavioral issues, Zumeta Edmonds said.

A good MTSS framework can also reduce the number of students being referred to special education, according to Yell.

"If you really have a good system, and it's working, you should have fewer nonresponders that wind up getting referred to special education, because their needs are being addressed in these earlier tiers of instruction," he said.

What are the challenges of MTSS?

The biggest challenge of MTSS is its implementation, according to Fuchs, Zumeta Edmonds, and Yell. Schools often don't have the resources and time to allow for the personalized instruction that tiers 2 and 3 require, Fuchs said. It is also not sustainable to maintain MTSS in schools facing staffing shortages, he said.

"If schools had the resources to build strong tier 2 and tier 3 supports, then in principle, that would be a real contribution and most likely helpful modification of our general education system," Fuchs said.

"But as much as I support MTSS in principle, as I have watched it play out in thousands of schools across the country, it fails more often than it succeeds."

That's because MTSS frameworks require districts to be well-versed in evidence-based instruction for each tier, collect data, collaborate across tiers, and invest resources and time into each tier of support and instruction, Fuchs said.

Some other challenges include training educators to be well-versed in the tiers of MTSS, allowing educators to change their curriculum to make sure it's tailored to be evidence based, and knowing how to collect and use student achievement data and make decisions based on it.

"If it's implemented properly, it helps every student in the school," Yell said.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
MTSS: What Is a Multi-Tiered System of Supports?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
MTSS, or multi-tiered system of supports, is a widely used framework meant to offer students personalized education that meets their needs.

# data[].attributes.headline
8 Strategies for Teaching Academic Language

# data[].attributes.subject
8 Strategies for Teaching Academic Language

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Edutopia is a free source of information, inspiration, and practical strategies for learning and teaching in preK-12 education. We are published by the George Lucas Educational Foundation, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
I Can Statements are family-friendly guides that can be used to help your family and ensure your students are on track for their grade level. All learning objectives for English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies are provided, written in family-friendly language. I Can Statements help make grade-level learning targets clear for families and they address the standards students of the same grade level learn in all public schools.

Multi-Grade Level Lists

The skills noted in the multi-grade level lists for science and social studies can be learned and applied to the content areas for their respective grade level groupings. These lists should be used in conjunction with the content standards. These skills can be assigned to the lessons in your personalized curriculum to demonstrate the following intellectual, reasoning, reflection, and research skills.

K-8th Grade: Science & Engineering Practices-Crosscutting Concepts

K-8th Grade: Historical & Social Studies Analysis Skills

I Can Checklists

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
I Can Statements - Cabrillo Point Academy

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Useful Writing And Editing Checklists For Elementary Schoolers - Studentreasures Blog

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We have put together this blog full of helpful worksheet with writing and editing checklists for elementary schoolers. Dive in!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
The Graduate School of Education and Human Development

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
As educators, it has become increasingly important to meet the needs of every learner. But practically speaking, what does that look like? Understanding how to create a supportive classroom and utilizing special education teaching methods are key to developing an environment that breeds success. Here are five tools and resources for special education teachers and administrators:

1: Differentiated Instruction

Differentiated instruction in special education is essential to ensuring student success. It's a teaching method that steers all students toward the same learning objectives while giving them the freedom to determine how they get there. Recognizing that not all students learn the same way means teachers can organize students into groups based on how they prefer to learn. When deployed correctly, it can bring struggling students up to speed, allow gifted students to learn at a pace that suits them, and integrate a student's individual accommodations. Despite perceptions that differentiation adds to teachers' workload, differentiation doesn't have to require a lot of extra planning.

2: Assistive Technology

Assistive technology refers to devices or services that help students with disabilities learn, communicate, or function more effectively. Thanks to advances in technology, these are a great complement to special education teaching methods. They can encompass voice-to-text tools, graphic organizers, screen readers, personal amplification devices, communication boards, pencil grips, and much more to support the needs of all learners. When it comes to assistive technology in special education, the options can be limitless!

3: Positive Behavior Supports

Positive behavior support (PBS), also known as Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), can lead to social emotional competence, academic success, and a healthy school climate for all students, enhancing their overall performance and long-term outcomes. PBS is a key behavioral intervention in special education as it teaches students new skills and alternative responses to less desirable behavior. An evidence-based framework, PBS focuses on creating positive, consistent, and safe learning environments that promote students' academic and social growth while preventing challenging behaviors rather than punishing them.

Co-teaching involves two or more certified professionals working together to share instructional responsibility for a single group of students. With six strategies to choose from, it is geared toward enhancing individualized instruction in the general education setting while providing additional support for students with special needs. This model prioritizes collaboration between co-teachers to ensure students with diverse learning needs are able to increase their understanding of the subject matter at hand. It can be especially effective for special education students, because it provides opportunities for instruction tailored to their specific needs.

5: Universal Design for Learning

Another area in which special education administrators and educators can make a difference is by applying universal design for learning (UDL) concepts to the school environment. Rooted from the idea that all architecture must be designed to accommodate diverse individual needs, UDL says that we should anticipate diversity in the classroom. This means considering how students process information, how students engage within the learning environment, and how students convey their learned knowledge. This also means considering cultural barriers, language barriers, and physical, emotional, and mental abilities and how they may impact a student's approach to learning. When the focus is on ensuring students reach the same goal while providing flexibility in how they reach that goal, it inherently becomes an inclusive classroom conducive to learning and growth.

All of these tools and resources can work together to provide optimal support for students and educators alike. The methodology and research behind these different approaches can also be examined further in a special education graduate degree program - along with ways to measure the efficacy of such approaches to ensure that students are achieving academically and behaviorally.

If you're interested in furthering your understanding and capabilities within the field of special education, a special education masters or doctoral program could be the right next step for you. At the George Washington University's Graduate School of Education and Human Development (GSEHD), the curriculum prioritizes disability studies, diversity, and inclusion in special education to create classroom environments that meet the needs of every learner. You can also choose from one of four graduate certificate programs. To learn more about our programs, request information from a GSEHD admissions coach to learn more today.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Five Tools and Resources for Special Education Teachers and Administrators | The Graduate School of Education and Human Development | The George Washington University

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
By utilizing these 5 special education teaching methods and resources, you can help create a supportive and inclusive classroom to reach all learners.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
As a special education teacher, you are always looking for new and innovative ways to help your students learn. One way is to incorporate the use of technology into your teaching practice.

With the right websites, you can provide engaging lessons that will help your students reach their full potential. In this article, we'll explore 10 websites that offer resources specifically designed for special education teachers. From online courses to interactive tools and games, these sites have something for everyone - no matter what level of experience or expertise they possess. So let's dive in!

After readind this article you'll know about:

It's no secret that special education teachers have a lot of work to do. We have a lot to do, create, and remember! Let's face it, we need to find ways to make our jobs as special education teachers more manageable.
To make your job at least a little easier, I've picked up 12 sites that will help solve this or that issue more effectively.

1. Naset - promoting the profession

NASET (National Association of Special Education Teachers) provides a unique platform for special education teachers to come together and support one another in the pursuit of modern professional development. With an exclusive focus on this vital field, NASET offers members invaluable opportunities to enhance their skillet and stay abreast of advancements within specialized teaching.
What is it?
For over a decade, NASET has been the go-to provider for professional development in special education. Today they have evolved their online platform to include an impressive array of courses, lectures, PowerPoint presentations and resources that aim to better equip educators working with those who need it most. With such vast content available now at its fingertips - from publications to webinars - this invaluable resource continues supporting teachers on their journey towards making real change in learners' lives around the world.

One organization stands at the forefront of special education: NASET. Its members stay informed on issues that matter, while striving to provide excellence in research, practice and policy innovation for students across the nation.

What Resources You Will Find:

ABA to Autism Spectrum Disorder

Behavior Assessment to Bullying

Cerebral Palsy to Curriculum Based Assessment

Deafness to Extended School Year Services

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome to Government Agencies

High Stakes Testing to Interventions

Journals to Literacy Resources

Magazines to No Child Left Behind (NCLB)

Occupational Therapy to Psychological Terminology

Q & A about IDEA to Rights of Children with Disabilities

Setting Up Your Classroom to Triennial Preparation

Videos to Who are the Children in Special Education?

Teacher Vision provides the cutting edge resources teachers need to support their students. Their team of certified, current classroom educators reviews and creates materials that are accurate, up-to-date and reflect changing educational needs.
What is it?
With over two decades of experience, Teacher Vision has been a leading provider of educational materials and resources to educators across the nation - from early education to high school. Millions trusts them for quality tools that enhance other's teaching.

Teaching is more than just a job - it's an opportunity to bring your vision to life. When the daily duties seem overwhelming and start threatening that dream, Teacher Vision is here with thousands of resources created by teachers for teachers: from standards-aligned lesson plans, helpful classroom management advice or stress relief workbooks.

What Resources You Will Find:

Struggling with learning disabilities can be a challenging experience, but LD OnLine is here to help. Our comprehensive resource provides crucial information and support needed for both children and parents alike; this includes hundreds of articles written by experts on the subject as well as videos, columns in addition to personal essays from experienced individuals & artworks submitted by kids too!

Informative articles on mental health and well-being, developmental and learning disabilities, and ADD/ADHD

Tools you can use to help your students adjust to grades

Grading tips

Case studies to learn how to grade a student

Teaching articles on how to teach and manage children with special needs

With over 25 years' worth of insight into disability-related issues within education environments - let us assist you through your journey towards understanding what it takes to make successful progress.

LD OnLine is determined to open doors of opportunity for both children and adults, arming them with the knowledge they need about learning disabilities and ADHD. LD OnLine provides invaluable resources to help teens and adults navigate the transition from school into higher education or meaningful employment. Our information also helps individuals with learning disabilities confront challenges which can otherwise impede success in these goals.

What Resources You Will Find:
What is it?
4. Do2Learn - innovation tools

Do2Learn began in 1996 with the help of a grant from the National Institutes of Health, seeking to bring together passionate educators and clinicians with tech experts. Together, they collaborate on developing innovative tools so that people like you can access their knowledge and resources worldwide.

Teaching mathematics

Teaching writing

Developing language and reading skills

Using technology in the classroom

Do2Learn began as a local resource, but soon blossomed into an international source of information. With over 11 million visitors per month and fierce search engine rankings, half their users come from abroad! This success is largely due to the thousands of sites that link back - in particular for picture cards, facial expressions and job tips searches.
What is it?
Do2Learn understands that busy teachers and professionals need more than just instructions on how to adapt their classrooms for children with special needs - they need resources. That's why Do2Learn provides access to a Teacher Toolbox containing not only behavior management plans and literacy tools, but also free picture cards as part of the package! Making it easier than ever before to devise successful visual communication systems in your classroom.

What Resources You Will Find:

The AFIRM modules are your comprehensive guide to expertly implementing evidence-based practices (EBP) with students on the autism spectrum, from infants to those up through age 22. Obtain valuable resources and materials right away - all available for download.

Free pages with social skills

Behavioral regulation activities and guidance

Learning songs and games

Communication cards

Academic material

Transition guides for employment and life skills

Autism Focused Intervention Resources & Modules (AFIRM) is an extension of the National Professional Development Center (NPDC) on ASD.

What Resources You Will Find:

If you work with children with autism, I recommend watching this video.
What is it?
Explore the vast catalog of resources available at the National Center for Learning Disabilities. Broaden your understanding on learning disabilities with videos and informative articles, each carefully crafted to provide an in-depth insight.

A summary and example of each AFIRM resource

Evidence-base

Step-by-Step Guide

Implementation Checklist

Data Collection Sheets

NCLD seeks to provide a brighter future for the 1 in 5 individuals with learning and attention issues. For over four decades, they have advocated for equal rights and opportunities so that those affected can develop essential academic, social, and emotional skills needed to succeed both inside of school walls and outside them. With proper support from NCLD's team of specialists - all capable young people facing these issues are given every chance possible to reach their full potentials.

To learn more about the activities of this site, I suggest you watch this video.

What Resources You Will Find:

Education Commission of the States empowers state policymakers with personalized support and innovative networking opportunities. By bridging education leaders together, their programs provide a platform for knowledge sharing to develop effective policy across states.
What is it?
Their team of experts equips policymakers with the resources necessary to understand and navigate every aspect of education from preschool through career advancement. With their help, we all have a chance for brighter futures.

What Resources You Will Find:

Connect with educators from around the United States and discover their unique approaches to meeting student needs by attending various events and workshops! Make lasting connections, learn new skills, and explore innovative strategies in order to best serve your students.

Navigating teacher-parent relationships

Using assistive technology

Using the 504 plan or the Individualized Education Program (IEP)

8. Raz-Kids - ebooks for everyone

Designed to keep kids engaged and motivated, their interactive learning portal provides access to leveled text in both online and mobile formats. Kids can listen, read at their own pace, or record themselves reading the eBooks before taking a corresponding quiz that evaluates comprehension. As they complete ten books with passing scores on each of the quizzes associated with them, students will level up - advancing into more challenging texts.
What is it?
Raz-Kids is an innovative education solution that equips teachers with hundreds of leveled e-books at varying degrees of difficulty. Easy to use, this award-winning resource ensures every student has access to the appropriate content for their educational needs.

What Resources You Will Find:

Becoming a special education teacher can open up many doors - the BLS is here to help you take that first step. With statistics on job outlook and information on how to enter this rewarding field, discover what it takes for a successful career in teaching. You'll experience not just personal growth within your profession, but also be able to explore different parts of our country; get ready for an exciting journey.

What Resources You Will Find:
What is it?
The National Education Association provides insightful information on special education, helping teachers better understand topics such as autism and disproportionality. With a range of resources at their fingertips, educators can easily access guidelines that provide the necessary guidance for addressing individual student needs.

800+ leveled eBooks for students to practice reading anytime, anywhere

Corresponding eQuizzes that measure student comprehension

Spanish eBook and eQuiz translations for ELLs and bilingual programs

Digital management and reporting tools to easily track individual and class-wide reading progress

As the voice of America's educators, NEA stands at the nexus between education and a brighter future. They are honored to bear this immense responsibility in light of our nation's commitment to public school success. Their mission is to equip education professionals as they become the backbone of a unified nation, empowering all students with necessary skills so that everyone may succeed in our increasingly interdependent world.

With the goal of providing all students in America with an excellent education, regardless of their family's income or where they live, NEA has mobilized its 3.2 million members to enhance instruction and student success while striving for safer schools overall.

What Resources You Will Find:

Games and Quizzes

Student's desk

Teacher's desk

As a special education teacher for blind or visually impaired students, you need the latest information and resources to ensure their literacy development. Paths to Literacy is an excellent website that can help! On this incredible site, you'll find up-to-date insights on stages of growth as well as challenges your students may encounter - not only that but also discover strategies and gain access to a huge library filled with helpful materials.
What is it?
Perkins and TSBVI team up to create a unique online resource that seeks to expand the conversation surrounding literacy for students with visual impairments, deafblindness or other disabilities. This extended partnership is an unprecedented step in unifying resources, knowledge and insights into this critical area of study.

In 2010, two schools identified a common goal; to create an online platform where important literacy resources were saved and shared. By providing this space they aimed to help both their communities find reliable information as well as leave room for creativity and new ideas.

What Resources You Will Find:

Paths to Literacy offers a range of information on the topic of literacy, from a basic overview to different stages of development and special challenges.

The Puzzle of Autism

Truth in Labeling: Disproportionality in Special Education

12. SENict - touch activities

This website is designed for educators of all levels to maximize their students' engagement. Through the use of switch, touch screen, mouse and eye gaze activities impacting learning experiences are facilitated; providing training materials and professional development services further supporting this goal. Plus a plethora of resources at your fingertips will leave you feeling prepared in no time.
What is it?
SENict is the website of Ian Bean. He provides expert consultation and training to leverage ICT and assistive technology in order to improve the lives of people with severe, profound, or complex additional needs. Through SENIct, Ian offers his expertise to enhance learning opportunities while also providing useful communication pathways for all ages.

What Resources You Will Find:

These resources can provide teachers and students with the support they need to succeed in the classroom.

3 Benefits From Considering These Tools

stages of development

challenges your students may face

a huge library of literacy strategies and resources

Let's take a look at some of the benefits of utilizing these incredible tools.

1. Customized Learning Plans

When dealing with special education, it's essential to develop individualized learning plans for each student. Special education teaching resources can help make this process easier by providing teachers with access to customized educational activities, materials, and assessments that are tailored to meet each student's specific needs. These materials can be used to create personalized lesson plans that will help students develop necessary skills and reach their goals faster.

2. Increased Engagement
What is it?
Special education teaching resources also offer educators the opportunity to increase engagement in the classroom by incorporating interactive elements such as videos, games, and puzzles into their lessons. For example, instead of having students complete worksheets as a way to review information, teachers can use online games or videos that allow them to review material while having fun at the same time. An increase in engagement often leads to better performance and improved retention rates among students with special needs.

3. Improved Communication

Over 500 free activities

27 SENict Software programs

Four hours of training videos

A large collection of other training and support files

Finally, special education teaching resources can help improve communication between teachers, parents, and students by providing them with an easy-to-use platform where they can track progress and share updates on homework assignments or other important information about their child's schoolwork. This improved communication is essential for helping teachers ensure that students are getting what they need from their instruction in order to flourish academically.

Useful Resources

Conclusion

Overall, there are numerous benefits associated with using special education teaching resources in the classroom. By taking advantage of these tools, educators can develop customized learning plans for each student; increase engagement through interactive elements; and improve communication between teachers, parents, and students. With so many advantages available from utilizing these resources in the classroom, it's no wonder why more and more educators are turning to them as a way to provide better instruction for their students with special needs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
12 Resources for Special Education Teachers to Enhance Learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This article provides readers with a comprehensive list of 10 special education teaching resources. These resources include helpful apps and websites, educational materials, and other tools to help teachers create learning environments for their students with special needs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Students with Disabilities: Special Education Categories

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Since almost five percent of all students in our nation's public schools are classified as having specific learning disabilities (SLD), every teacher can expect to find students with learning disabilities in the classroom. Success for these students requires a focus on individual achievement, individual progress, and individual learning. Despite obstacles, recent research tells us that we can teach these students how to learn. We can put them into a position to compete!

Specific strategies apply to specific learning disabilities and many are outlined here. You will also find tips for working with children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

If you suspect a student in your classroom has a learning disability it is important to know how to accommodate their needs and differentiate instruction. It can be a daunting and complicated task. But don't despair. LDA is here to help you understand learning disabilities and lead you and your student to the right support systems.
Learn more about LD

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Since almost five percent of all students in our nation's public schools are classified as having specific learning disabilities (SLD), every teacher can expect to find students with learning disabilities in the classroom. Success for these students requires a focus on individual achievement, individual progress, and individual learning.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
IEP Goal Bank: Goals for Students with Learning Disabilities

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
From classroom management to working with parents, lesson planning to learning environments, this compilation of blogs, videos, and other resources provides an array of tips and advice for teachers just starting out.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
World's most popular online marketplace for original educational resources with more than four million resources available for use today.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Free Online Resources for 4th Grade | Education.com

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Excited to learn more about fourth grade? Use these fourth grade learning resources to get started today!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
AI Detector - Accurate Chat GPT, GPT4 & AI Text Checker Tool

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Detect chatGPT content for Free, simple way & High accuracy. OpenAI detection tool, ai essay detector for teacher. Plagiarism detector for AI generated text

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Five Ways to Support Gifted Students in Your Classroom | Kaplan Early Learning Company

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Teachers often find it difficult to understand the specific needs of gifted children. To better support their learning, learn how gifted students think, create tiered assignments, include a variety of levels in your classroom library, utilize their interests, and explore real world application.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is it?

A place for students to put questions for the teacher (or other students) to answer at a later time.

Where is it found?

Posted on the wall.

How do I use it?

If there isn't time to answer a question, or if the question isn't relevant to the activity at hand, try writing it on a Post-it or dry-erase "parking lot" so you can get back to it later. But make sure you do get back to it eventually!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Support students with disabilities by incorporating these communication and community supports into your classroom.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
brainpop "brainpop jr." education edtech students learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
BrainPOP® creates animated, curricular content that engages students, supports educators, and bolsters achievement. Our award-winning online educational resources include BrainPOP Jr.® (K-3), BrainPOP, BrainPOP Español™ , and, for English-language learners, BrainPOP ELL™. BrainPOP is also home to GameUp®, a free educational games portal for the classroom.