How To Use State Standards To Lead Your Instruction

In the world of special education, teachers face a unique challenge: how to effectively use state learning standards to guide their instructional practices while accommodating students with diverse learning needs. This balancing act often involves weighing the pros and cons of using grade-level versus academic ability.

As we know, many students with special needs may perform below their grade level in certain skills. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of instruction in special education, discuss the considerations of using grade-level versus academic ability, and highlight valuable resources available to special education teachers.

The Significance of Standards-Based Instruction

Standards-based instruction is the backbone of modern education, and it plays a crucial role in ensuring that students receive a well-rounded and comprehensive education. These serve as a roadmap for what students should know and be able to do at each grade level in various subject areas. For students with special needs, standards-based instruction offers a clear framework for setting academic goals, tracking progress, and promoting consistency in education.

What Resources Are Available?

Get the Essential Elements Guide

Get the Common Core Guide

Get the Access Points Guide

The Dilemma: Grade-Level vs. Academic Ability

One of the primary challenges that special education teachers face is deciding whether to align their instructional practices with grade-level or academic ability standards, also known as alternate or modified standards. Here, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of each approach:

Grade-Level Criteria

Pros:

1. High Expectations: Grade-level standards set high expectations for students, challenging them to strive for proficiency in age-appropriate skills.
2. Inclusion: Aligning with grade-level standards allows students with special needs to be part of general education classrooms, fostering inclusion and social interaction.
3. College and Career Readiness: Grade-level standards prepare students for college and career opportunities, aligning with the ultimate goal of education.

Cons:

1. Potential Gaps: Some students with special needs may struggle to meet grade-level standards in certain areas, leading to potential gaps in their education.
2. Frustration: Constantly falling behind grade-level expectations can lead to frustration and disengagement among students.

Academic Ability Criteria

Pros:

1. Individualized Learning: Academic ability standards allow for a more individualized approach, ensuring that instruction meets students where they are.
2. Reduced Frustration: Students are less likely to experience frustration when learning tasks are aligned with their current abilities.
3. Progress Tracking: Teachers can better track students’ progress when working with standards tailored to their abilities.

Cons:

1. Limiting Potential: Academic ability standards may inadvertently limit students’ potential by setting lower expectations.
2. Alignment Challenges: It can be challenging to align instruction with a variety of academic ability standards, given the diverse needs of special education students.

To assist special education teachers in planning their school year, I have created Common Core, Access Points, or Essential Elements planning guides to help you map out your school year! You can read more about how to plan for your curriculum here.

Striking a Balance: Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)

The key to effectively navigating this dilemma lies in the development of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). IEPs are personalized documents that outline the specific educational goals and services for each student with special needs. These plans can include a combination of grade-level and academic ability, ensuring that each student’s unique needs are addressed.

For example, a student with dyslexia may receive instruction based on grade-level standards in mathematics but may follow academic ability standards for reading and language arts. This approach allows teachers to challenge students in areas of strength while providing additional support in areas of weakness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, special education teachers face the ongoing challenge of aligning their instructional practices with state learning standards, while accommodating the diverse needs of their students. While there are pros and cons to both grade-level and academic ability, the key is to strike a balance through Individualized Education Plans. By doing so, educators can provide tailored instruction that empowers students to reach their fullest potential. Additionally, resources like Teachers Pay Teachers offer valuable support for special education teachers as they navigate this complex educational landscape, ensuring that every student receives the quality education they deserve.

Get the Essential Elements Guide

Get the Common Core Guide

Get the Access Points Guide

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