Chapter Summary:
Chapter 5 defines Specific learning disability is defined in IDEA as a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, which may manifest in an imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or perform mathematical calculations and is not caused by a sensory, motor, or intellectual disability; an emotional disturbance; or environmental or economic disadvantage. In this chapter, you will learn about the characteristics, prevalence, causes, identification, assessment, and educational approaches for students with a specific learning disability.
Learning Outcomes:
• List the three criteria most states use to identify students with learning disabilities.
• State the characteristic that encompasses all students with learning disabilities.
• Explain the possible reasons for the recent decline in the number of students identified with learning disabilities.
• Identify three suspected causes of learning disabilities.
• Describe assessments used to identify students with learning disabilities and monitor their progress.
• Describe evidence-based strategies for teaching reading, writing, and math to students with learning disabilities.
• Compare and contrast typical placements and supports for students with learning disabilities.
Reflection Questions:
1. Children with learning disabilities, like other children, experience varying degrees of social acceptance. How can a teacher influence a child’s level of acceptance?
2. Would the educational strategies outlined in this chapter be appropriate for students without disabilities? Why or why not?
3. In an RTI model, what role should assessment play in planning instruction for students with a learning disability?
Chapter Activity:
1. Watch the video, What are learning disabilities?
Answer the following questions:
What is a learning disability?
What are the types of learning disabilities?
What can teachers and support staff do to help students with learning disabilities?