Frequently Used Instructional Terms by Alexandra Johnson

Intervention

anellie1993 — 2025-08-16 21:16:19 UTC

Interventions are targeted teaching strategies or supports designed to address specific academic or behavioral challenges a student is facing.
Who it applies to: Any student (general ed or special ed) who needs extra help to master a skill.
Examples:

Small group reading instruction
Behavior contracts
Peer tutoring

Differentiation

anellie1993 — 2025-08-16 21:17:25 UTC

Definition: Differentiation means tailoring instruction—content, process, or product—so students of varying abilities can access the material.
Who it applies to: All students, not only those with disabilities.
Examples:

Offering text at different reading levels
Flexible grouping for assignments
Choice boards for projects

Accommodations

anellie1993 — 2025-08-16 21:19:27 UTC

Definition: Accommodations change how a student learns or demonstrates knowledge without altering learning expectations.
Who it applies to: Students with disabilities under IDEA or Section 504.
Examples:

Extended time on tests
Preferential seating
Text-to-speech software

Adaptations

anellie1993 — 2025-08-16 21:23:24 UTC

Definition: Adaptations are changes that help students access the curriculum, sometimes altering the presentation or setting but not always changing expectations.
Who it applies to: Students with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities who need materials or instruction altered for access.
Examples:

Enlarged print for visually impaired students
Using manipulatives in math
Providing visual schedules

Modifications

anellie1993 — 2025-08-16 21:32:09 UTC

Definition: Modifications change what a student is expected to learn, lowering or altering grade-level standards.
Who it applies to: Students with significant cognitive disabilities who cannot meet grade-level expectations even with accommodations.
Examples:

Alternate assignments with reduced complexity
Shortened reading passages
Using basic computation instead of algebra

Specially Designed Instruction (SDI)

anellie1993 — 2025-08-16 21:33:27 UTC

Definition: SDI refers to instruction tailored to meet a student’s unique needs as outlined in their IEP, ensuring they can access the general curriculum.
Who it applies to: Students who qualify for special education under IDEA.
Examples:

Teaching reading comprehension using explicit, scaffolded strategies
Providing step-by-step math problem-solving instruction
Social skills training for students with autism