Modifications and Best Practices to Accommodate Diverse Learners

(http://www.cdipage.com/teacher.htm)

How do I make sure I leave the Mathematics in the modifications?

Mathematics is a content area that is conceptual with many processes (http://www.literacymatters.org/content/math.htm). Modifications are necessary, at times, to accommodate some learners; however, modifications should not result in students not learning essential mathematical concepts and skills.  The curriculum map should be used to identify what and when concepts and skills should be addressed.  Lessons should be planned knowing where students are in their understanding and skills.  Modifications in materials, instructional design, and assessments should be made to accommodate each student’s learning style and abilities.  A student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP’s) accommodations should be utilized in planning lessons. 

The following web-based articles and sites should prove helpful for planning modifications. They provide strategies and other resources for developing instruction.

ELL Students

http://www.glencoe.com/sec/teachingtoday/subject/help_ELL_math.phtml

Students who have difficulty with the mathematical concepts

http://coe.jmu.edu/mathvidsr/intro.htm

http://www.teachervision.fen.com/page/3790.html?detoured=1

Struggling Readers

http://www.literacymatters.org/content/math.htm

Gifted students

http://www.ericdigests.org/2001-1/math.html

Varied Assessments

http://mathforum.org/mathed/assessment.html

http://www.pbs.org/teachersource/whats_new/math/archives.shtm#a