There is an excellent book that deals with IEPs and accommodations in school. The title is: Teenagers with ADD: A Parents' Guide by Chris Dendy, M.S. Information about it can be found at: http://www.addbalance.com/add/books/teenagers_with_add.html
Appendix C spells out the impact ADD has on various aspects of school performance. It lists the following as common classroom adaptations:
- untimed tests
- use of calculator or computer
- modification of assignments (every 3rd math problem)
- elimination of unnecessary writing--write answers only not questions
- written homework assignments given by teachers
- utilization of notetakers or guided lecture notes
She urges use of positive feedback for behavior control rather than punishment.
The book also has sample IEPs that deal with ADD/WO and ADHD type problems.
It should be available through your local library and is an impressive-looking book (looks and reads like a textbook).
Teenagers with ADD: A Parents' Guide also has a copy of the US DOE memo on ADD and in one of the two chapters dealing with IDEA & 504 lists the following from that memo. Again, the memo should be some good authority that you are not half-baked in asking for accommodation/adaptation.
US DOE Suggestions
- structured learning environment
- repeat and simplify instructions
- provide visual aids
- use behavior management
- adjust class schedules
- modify test delivery
- use tape recorder
- computer-aided instruction
- audio-visual equipment
- reduce class size
- modified textbooks or workbooks
- tailor homework assignments
- consultation
- one-to-one tutors
- special resources
- classroom aides
- notetaker
- services coordinator
- modify nonacademic times: lunchroom, recess, PE
Other adaptations suggested by Chris A. Zeigler Dendy, M.S.
- seat near teacher
- reduce distractions
- pair students to check work
- pair with student who checks to see if assignment is written down
- give untimed tests
- use calculator
- give guided lecture notes
- provide chapter outline
- simplify distraction
- don't reduce grade for handwriting
- seat near positive role model
- consider multiple choice tests
- use Books on Tape
- use extra set of books at home
- use weekly progress reports
- consider oral tests
- teach study skills
- put assignments in writing by month
- use color to highlight information to be memorized, or common errors
- use flash cards
Dendy emphasizes that the IEP should be driven by the child's needs - not by the eligibility label (OHI - EBD - SLD).
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See also Wrights' Law http://www.wrightslaw.com
I suspect that there are several good articles at the Mining Company site as well:
