CSTP 4 - Planning Instruction and Designing Learning Experiences for All Students

 Start with IEP Goals

• Design instruction directly around students' Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals and objectives.

• Embed goals across subjects and daily routines (e.g., counting goals during snack time).

• Use progress monitoring tools to adjust instruction based on student data.

2. Use Differentiated Instruction

• Modify content, process, and products based on students’ readiness levels, interests, and learning profiles.

• Provide multiple ways for students to engage with the material and demonstrate understanding.

• 3. Incorporate Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

• Plan lessons using UDL principles:

• Multiple means of representation (visuals, videos, symbols)

• Multiple means of action/expression (AAC, pointing, selecting)

• Multiple means of engagement (games, music, movement)

• 🔗 Resource: CAST UDL Guidelines

4. Design Thematic Units

• Plan weekly or monthly thematic units that integrate multiple subject areas.

• Themes like “community helpers,” “seasons,” or “transportation” provide meaningful context and repetition.

• Allows you to reuse vocabulary and concepts across different formats.

5. Use Visual Supports and Schedules

• Plan instruction using visual aids such as first-then boards, sequence cards, and classroom schedules.

• Helps students anticipate, process, and participate in activities.

• 🔗 Tool: Boardmaker

6. Create Adapted Materials

• Simplify reading passages, enlarge print, add symbols, and include tactile elements.

• Use task boxes, adapted books, and hands-on manipulatives tailored to student levels.

• 🔗 Resource: Tar Heel Reader – Free, accessible books
  🔗 Resource: The Autism Helper – Adapted curriculum tools

7. Integrate Life Skills and Academics

• Embed functional life skills (e.g., hygiene, communication, community signs) into daily lessons.

• For example, teaching math through grocery store role-play or reading a recipe to build literacy and sequencing.

8. Incorporate Assistive Technology

• Plan for students to access and interact with content using AAC, tablets, switches, or eye gaze systems.

• Allow alternative response modes for participation and assessment.

• 🔗 Tool: TouchChat AAC App
  🔗 Tool: Choiceworks Visual Schedule

9. Build in Repetition and Generalization

• Repeat core concepts using varied materials and settings.

• Plan structured and unstructured opportunities to generalize skills (e.g., greeting peers during circle time and recess).

10. Use Data-Driven Instruction

• Collect ongoing observational and performance data.

Use it to adjust pacing, groupings, and supports to meet students’ evolving needs.