Frequently Used Instructional Terms by

Definition: Targeted support strategies used to address specific learning or behavioral needs.

arianna_glamorous — 2025-06-30 04:51:56 UTC

Who it applies to: Any student who is struggling academically or behaviorally—not just those with disabilities.

Examples:

Small group reading instruction 3 times a week.

Weekly behavior check-ins with a counselor.

Math tutoring during lunch.

Resource:

RTI Action Network – Provides in-depth resources on intervention strategies and Response to Intervention.

https://www.rtinetwork.org

High-Leverage Practice (HLP):

HLP 14 – Teaching cognitive and metacognitive strategies to support learning and independence.

Helps students develop strategies to monitor and improve their learning.

https://highleveragepractices.org

Definition: Adjusting instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners.

arianna_glamorous — 2025-06-30 04:52:57 UTC

Who it applies to: All students, especially in inclusive classrooms with varying readiness levels and learning styles.

Examples:

Offering text at varying reading levels.

Using visual, auditory, and kinesthetic teaching strategies.

Flexible grouping based on skill level.

Resource:

Carol Tomlinson's Differentiation Central – Offers strategies and research about differentiated instruction.

https://differentiationcentral.com

HLP:

HLP 19 – Use assistive and instructional technologies.

Helps tailor instruction to individual needs.

https://highleveragepractices.org

Definition: Changes how a student accesses information or demonstrates learning without altering learning expectations.

arianna_glamorous — 2025-06-30 04:54:22 UTC

Who it applies to: Students with IEPs or 504 Plans under IDEA or Section 504.

Examples:

Extended time on tests.

Audio books instead of printed text.

Preferential seating.

Resource:

Understood.org – Accommodations: What They Are and How They Work

Explains types of accommodations and when to use them.

https://www.understood.org

EBP:

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Guidelines

Promotes access through multiple means of representation and expression.

https://udlguidelines.cast.org

Definition: Adjustments to materials or instruction that change how content is taught, but not the expectations.

arianna_glamorous — 2025-06-30 04:55:02 UTC

Who it applies to: Students with learning or physical disabilities who need instructional access.

Examples:

Using a calculator for math computation.

Simplified reading passages.

Graphic organizers for note-taking.

Resource:

LDOnline – Adapting Curriculum

Offers strategies for adapting curriculum while maintaining learning goals.

http://www.ldonline.org

HLP:

HLP 16 – Use explicit instruction.

Instructional clarity supports students with learning challenges.

https://highleveragepractices.org

Definition: Adjustments to materials or instruction that change how content is taught, but not the expectations.

arianna_glamorous — 2025-06-30 04:55:08 UTC

Who it applies to: Students with learning or physical disabilities who need instructional access.

Examples:

Using a calculator for math computation.

Simplified reading passages.

Graphic organizers for note-taking.

Resource:

LDOnline – Adapting Curriculum

Offers strategies for adapting curriculum while maintaining learning goals.

http://www.ldonline.org

HLP:

HLP 16 – Use explicit instruction.

Instructional clarity supports students with learning challenges.

https://highleveragepractices.org

Definition: Changes in curriculum expectations or outcomes to meet the needs of a student.

arianna_glamorous — 2025-06-30 04:55:58 UTC

Who it applies to: Students with significant cognitive disabilities.

Examples:

Reducing the number of homework questions.

Providing alternative assignments.

Lowering reading level of content.

Resource:

IRIS Center – Modifications vs. Accommodations

Clear comparison with examples of each.

https://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu

EBP:

Functional Curriculum – Teaches practical life skills along with academics.

https://ici.umn.edu

Definition: Tailored instruction to meet the unique needs of a student with a disability as outlined in an IEP.

arianna_glamorous — 2025-06-30 04:56:36 UTC

Who it applies to: Only students with an IEP under IDEA.

Examples:

Direct phonics instruction for a student with dyslexia.

Speech-language therapy sessions.

Visual schedules for students with autism.

Resource:

OSEP IDEAs That Work – SDI Guidance

Details how SDI supports students with disabilities.

https://osepideasthatwork.org

HLP:

HLP 12 – Systematically design instruction toward a specific learning goal.

Ensures instruction aligns with individualized goals.

https://highleveragepractices.org