Special Education

Learning Environment Requirements

The purpose of a learning wall and learning environment is for students to gain access to the materials, examples, targeted skills, topics, and strategies that are the focus of learning. The learning walls should be neat, clear, and current. The teacher can assist students by modeling the use of the resources and tools during the teaching block.

Essentials for Learning Walls in an SDC Class

1. Clear visuals – real images, symbols, simple layout

2. Core vocabulary – AAC words, sentence starters

3. Visual schedules – daily routine, "Now/Next/Then"

4. Learning Intentions & Success Criteria – “I can” statements with pictures/ work samples

5. Behavior supports – visual rules, emotion charts

6. Interactive elements – Velcro, flaps, choice boards

7. Tactile/sensory supports – textured or calm visuals

8. Individualized tools – personalized visuals/IEP goals

9. Consistent symbols – match AAC or class visuals

10. Accessible design – eye-level, large print, mobility-friendly

11. The 5 Domains Posted - (Functional Academics, Domestic, Community, Vocational, Recreation & Leisure with pictures/ work samples
    
    

Essentials for Language Arts

• Sound Spelling Cards (K-2nd)

• Targeted sound should be visible with the associated S/S card and words with S/S pattern (K-2nd), Phonics skill visible (3rd-6th)

• Targeted High-Frequency Words (HFW)

• Vocabulary words with visual representation of the words

• Current graded student work samples

Essentials for Mathematics

• Targeted topic should be evident

• Math vocabulary should include visual representations

• Examples of mathematical models that demonstrate conceptual understanding

• Math manipulatives should be available for students to access

• Current graded student work samples