Classroom Modifications

by Rosisella Villegas

MATERIAL PRESENTATION

• Break assignments into segments of shorter tasks.  

• Provide an overview of the lesson before beginning.

• Monitor the student's comprehension of language used during instruction.

• Schedule frequent, short conferences with the student to check for comprehension.        

•  Highlight important concepts during lesson with words like This is important or Listen up

• Provide clear, concise directions and concrete examples for homework assignments.

• Provide written and verbal directions with visuals when possible.

• Go over visual task and make sure the student has a clear understanding of all parts of the assignment from the beginning.  

• Have the student verbalize instructions before beginning task.

• Provide outlines, study guides, copies of overhead presentations to reduce frustration with visual-motor integration and encourage concentration on lesson not on writing.

TIME DEMANDS    

• Prioritize assignments and/or step to completing assignments.      

• Set time limits for specific task completion. 

•  Modify expectations based on student’s needs.

• Number the steps required to complete the assignment.      

LANGUAGE PROCESSING        

• Give written directions to supplement verbal directions.       

• Paraphrase information.           

•  Encourage feedback from the student to check for understanding. 

•  Always demonstrate how new material relates to previously learned information. 

CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT

• Provide an established daily routine.

• Eliminate all unnecessary materials from student’s desk to reduce distractions.

•  Provide opportunity for movement.      

• Provide clear rules and consistently enforce them.    

• Check the student's notebook to insure the use of dividers, assignment sheet, and calendar.    

• Provide due dates on written assignments.    

• Provide a specific place for turning in completed assignments.      

• Frequently check the organization of the student's notebook.

• Use checklists to help student get organized.            

• Have an agreed-upon cue for student to leave classroom if necessary.

• Seat students away from windows and doorways.

• Provide unobstructed view of chalkboard, overhead, teacher, etc.

• Give immediate reinforcements or consequences for impulsive behavior.