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.