Accommodations for a Student Who Has Difficulty with Abstract Thinking

List of needs and solutions

Accommodations in Instructional Methods and Materials

Instructions

• Present material in logical manner; use cues to identify components.
• Break complex information into steps or identify key components.
• Use hands-on activities, pictures, or diagrams to represent abstract concepts or complex information.
• Use modeling and thinking aloud when teaching.

Notataking

• Provide copies of transparencies, lecture outline, or graphic organizer to assist with notetaking.
• Teach 2-column notetaking or concept mapping techniques.
• Let student use flow chart to plan strategies for math problem solving.
• Let student use brainstorming or mindmapping software for notetaking.

Accommodations in Assignments and Assessments

Instructions

• Repeat, paraphrase, and summarize key information, especially at end of lesson.
• Use real-life, concrete materials when introducing abstract ideas.
• Let student use concrete materials, computer models, and manipulatives when learning math concepts.
• Color-code or highlight key words in math word problems.

Technology

• Let student use software that places symbols above words in written assignments.

Classroom Tests

• Conduct review of knowledge and skills several days before test.
• Provide study guide to help students prepare for test.
• Review corrected tests and debrief students.
• Have student self-evaluate test performance.

List of needs and solutions