Using Multi-Sensory Learning Techniques to Enhance Study Skills

Multi-sensory learning techniques engage more than one sense at a time—such as sight, sound, touch, or movement—to help students absorb and retain information. These techniques are particularly beneficial for students with special needs, including those with learning disabilities like dyslexia, ADHD, or autism. By involving multiple senses in the learning process, multi-sensory methods tap into…

Balancing Academic and Social-Emotional Development on Report Cards

For students with special needs, education goes beyond academic achievement. Social-emotional development plays an equally crucial role in their growth, impacting their ability to interact with others, regulate emotions, and engage in learning. As a result, report cards for special needs students should reflect a balance between academic progress and social-emotional development, providing a more…

Should Grades Reflect Effort or Mastery for Special Needs Students?

Grading students with special needs presents a unique challenge, as educators must balance recognizing individual effort with measuring mastery of skills and content. The question of whether grades for special needs students should reflect effort or mastery is complex, involving pedagogical philosophies, fairness, and the goal of creating an inclusive learning environment. Effort-based grading rewards…

The Role of IEPs in Shaping Grades and Assessments

Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) play a critical role in shaping how students with special needs are graded and assessed. Developed in collaboration with educators, specialists, and parents, IEPs are legally mandated documents that outline specific educational goals, accommodations, and services tailored to meet the unique needs of each student. These personalized plans ensure that students…