Differentiating Science Instruction and Assessment for Learners With Special Needs, K–8
- Kevin D. Finson - Bradley University, USA
- Christine K. Ormsbee - Oklahoma State University, USA
- Mary M. Jensen - Western Illinois University, USA
"Finson, Ormsbee, and Jensen offer excellent instructional variations and assessment alternatives for students with learning disabilities and behavior disorders. The book also provides practical guidance for teachers on ways to make science lessons accessible to all students."
—Greg P. Stefanich, Professor
University of Northern Iowa
Field-tested strategies for teaching science to students with special needs
Teachers are required to provide appropriate science instruction to all students, including children with special needs. However, educators are often left on their own to figure out how to effectively differentiate lessons and activities. Help is here! This timely, practical guidebook shows general and special educators how to retool science activities and assessments for students with special needs—including those of ADD, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. The authors cover a broad range of topics in an orderly, concise fashion, including:
- National and state requirements for student learning and science literacy
- Pedagogical strategies for collaborative learning groups, self-paced learning centers, literature circles, and team projects
- Grade-appropriate ways to revise science activities and assessments for biology, earth science, and physical science lessons
- Step-by-step instructions for using rubrics for evaluation, revision, and assessment
- Information on teacher collaboration and specific disabilities
Also included are vignettes and checklists to assist teachers in bridging the gap between science and special education instruction and assessment. By adjusting the content, teaching critical thinking, and providing a variety of ways for learners to demonstrate their knowledge, you will give all students the chance to achieve academic success in science.
“This book provides practical guidance for teachers on ways to make science lessons accessible to all students. It contains a variety of vignettes, suggestions for revising written and printed materials for the spectrum of common learning disabilities, and suggested modifications in science lessons with sidebars that describe strategies and accommodations for students who face learning challenges in the regular classroom."
"Provides step-by-step instructions for using rubrics for revision and assessment, discusses science instruction and specific disabilities, and case histories with checklists to help teachers understand connections between science and special education."
"Since science has the potential to draw students into knowledge-expanding and skill-building learning experiences, it is important for principals, teachers and parents to expect good science education to reach all students in their classrooms, and that is why this book is a must-read."
Perfect for my K-8 SPED science methods portion!
Sample Materials & Chapters
Chapter 1: Collaborating to Teach Students With Mild to Moderate Disabilities in
