Can you actually accommodate for science for a student whose reading level is far below grade level and still make the curriculum accessible? You can and if you want to remain sane in your classroom, you should. Frustrated students who cannot access the curriculum become eventual behavior problems either (a) because they want to save face from embarrassment or (b) they’re just angry that the work is too hard. Don’t worry, though! Accommodating for science isn’t that tricky anymore; websites exist to help all levels of science teachers not only understand differentiation but figure out how to accommodate the learning of all types of students with disabilities.
First, feast your eyes on DO IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology). You do have to navigate the website a little to get to the good stuff, but I promise it’s there. Go “Resources” and “Accommodations” and the website will tell you how to accommodate for any academic activity and any disability. I’ll link you to that page right here. You’re welcome.
You can find more information on how to fully include students with disabilities on this website, which is also attached to DO IT, but through University of Washington website. This website addresses the Access STEM curriculum. If you click on the MESA Curriculum Supplement, you’ll find a list of activities. Each activity has suggested accommodations for each type of disability. Ta-da!
I’m certain you will find more to explore as you click through these websites. I just found those couple of magical things as I clicked around! Good luck and happy exploring. I hope you find happiness in your classroom in your journey.
