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Definition: Targeted, research-based strategies used to support students who are struggling academically or behaviorally, typically supplemental to core instruction, aimed at closing skill gaps.

Who it's for: Students showing academic or behavioral difficulties, including those being monitored under RTI/MTSS; may be a precursor to special education evaluation.

Example's:

One-on-one phonics tutoring using a validated program

PBIS check-in/check-out behavioral plan

Small-group math fluency drills

Dig Deeper:

Title: Interventions, Modifications, and Accommodations
Summary: Clear definitions and distinctions, with emphasis on research-based interventions.
Link: WrightPsych.com - Interventions, Modifications, and Accommodations

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Definition: Proactive variation of instruction (content, process, or product) within a lesson to address diverse learners, aiming for all students to access the same standards.

Who it’s for: All students, including those with differing readiness levels, interests, and profiles (e.g., ELLs, gifted learners, students with disabilities).

Examples:

Choice menus for demonstrating learning (essay, video, art)

Flexible grouping by readiness or interest

Texts at various complexity levels on the same theme

Dig Deeper:

Title: Special education definitions by Port Townsend SD
Summary: Discusses differentiation strategies like scaffolding, tiered instruction, and flexible grouping.
Link: special education definitions - Port Townsend School District

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Disabilities that qualify for special education - In order to fully meet the definition (and eligibility for special education and related services) as a “child with a disability,” a child’s educational performance must be adversely affected due to the disability.

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Definition:

Adjustments in how students receive or demonstrate learning without changing the curriculum itself, such as testing format, timing, or supports.

Who it’s for:
Students with IEPs or 504 plans under IDEA, e.g., those with dyslexia, ADHD, sensory impairments, who need access to the curriculum without altering academic expectations.

Examples:

Extended time for tests

Speech-to-text software

Preferential seating

Dig Deeper:

Title: Specially Designed Instruction (SDI), Standards, and Accommodations (Colorado DOE)
Summary: Offers clear definitions and examples of instructional accommodations.
Link: Specially Designed Instruction (SDI), Standards, and Accommodations | CDE

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Specially Designed Instruction (SDI), Standards, and Accommodations | CDE

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Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) Overview

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Definition: Adjusting how instruction is delivered or paced (e.g., simplifying language or slowing down) to help students with significant learning needs access standard content.

Who it’s for:
Students who need systematic instructional changes, often due to cognitive, sensory, or language-based disabilities, and require more than accommodations alone.

Examples:

Visual schedules for task completion

Simplified texts or step-by-step guides

Slowed pacing with repeated teaching segments

Title: Special education definitions (Port Townsend)
Summary: Defines adaptations like scaffolding, graphic organizers, pre-teaching, and reteaching.
Link: special education definitions - Port Townsend School District

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Disabilities that qualify for special education - In order to fully meet the definition (and eligibility for special education and related services) as a “child with a disability,” a child’s educational performance must be adversely affected due to the disability.

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Definition: Changes to what students are expected to learn, lowering academic standards, or altering performance criteria.

Who it’s for:
Students with significant cognitive or developmental disabilities whose IEP outlines alternate expectations or alternate assessments.

Examples:

Simplified assignments (e.g., basic paragraph instead of essay)

Alternate curriculum entirely (functional/life skills focus)

Adjusted grading based on effort, not accuracy

Dig Deeper:

Title: Everything you need to know about specially designed instruction

Summary: Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) is a personalized, evidence-based approach tailored to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they can access the general curriculum through customized content, teaching strategies, and supports outlined in their IEPs.

Link: Specially Designed Instruction: A Clear Guide for Educators

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Specially Designed Instruction: A Clear Guide for Educators

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Learn what specially designed instruction is, its key components, examples, and how educators implement it effectively to support students with disabilities.

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Definition: Individualized instruction adapted in content, method, or delivery to address IEP goals and ensure access to grade-level curriculum, including accommodations and modifications as needed.

Who it’s for:
Students with IEPs under IDEA. SDI is designed or delivered by qualified personnel, special or general educators, paras under supervision, to meet the needs arising from the disability.

Examples:

Orton–Gillingham phonics for a student with dyslexia

Multi-sensory math instruction in a small group with reteach

Behavior intervention embedded in routine for self-regulation goals

Dig Deeper:

Title: Specially Designed Instruction Overview (CEC/State sources)
Summary: Explains SDI as adapting instruction to disability-based needs, distinct from accommodations and modifications.
Link: Specially Designed Instruction (SDI), Standards, and Accommodations | CDE

Specially Designed Instruction | Council for Exceptional Children

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Specially Designed Instruction (SDI), Standards, and Accommodations | CDE

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Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) Overview