MODIFICATIONS        

The following are a few of the many modifications that can be made to help a student be successful in the classroom.  
                                                                                   
Modifications for Behavior

*    Utilize preferential seating
*    Minimize distractions
*    Provide structure
*    Allow time for motor breaks
*    Clarify rules, expectations and consequences
*    Notify student of transitions
*    Engage in home/school communication
*    Praise students
*    Utilize behavior management techniques
*    Provide and alternate work area
*    Utilize a token economy
*    Utilize oral cues and prompts

   
Modifications for Reading

*    Utilize graphic organizers and story maps
*    Preview material(charts, graphs, pictures, vocabulary)
*    Provide material at appropriate instructional level
*    Allow partner reading
*    Teach students to summarize and paraphrase
*    Utilize the 5 W questions
*    Allow partner reading, choral reading, repeat reading
*    Drill and Review


Modifications for Content Areas

*    Utilize graphic organizers
*    Preview material
*    Provide material at appropriate instructional level
*    Tape record material for sutdent
*    Give oral and visual instructions for assignments
*    Utilize visuals
*    Limit amount of material presented at a time
*    Provide student with advanced organizers and study guides
*    Shorten assignments
*    Chose only a few important concepts to teach
*    Use a multi-media approach
*    Vary instructional methods
*    Accept oral or shorter written answers



   
Modifications for Math

*    Teach math tricks, shortcuts and mnemonics
*    Utilize manipulatives
*    Provide material at appropriate instructional level
*    Make material meaningful and functional
*    Repeatedly drill and review
*    Break instruction and assignments into small parts
*    Provide frequent review
*    Color code material
*    Utilize flash cards
*    Provide models
*    Preview the language of the concepts
*    Provide addition, subtraction, and multiplication charts


Modifications for Written Language

*    Provide graphic organizers
*    Use Post-It notes for organization
*    Provide material at appropriate instructional level
*    Allow students to draw out thoughts before writing
*    Narrow topic choice
*    Provide a structured model for student to follow
*    Allow student to dictate for writing assignments
*    Allow student to use manuscript, cursive or keyboard
*    Grade on content not spelling, mechanics or grammar errors.

   
Modifications for Presentation

*    Pre-teach new concepts and vocabulary
*    Utilize drill and review
*    Present in small group, one-on-one
*    Provide models and demonstrations
*    Provide study guides and advanced organizers
*    Use visuals and manipulatives
*    Utilize alternate materials
*    Utilize supplementary materials
*    Reduce paper/pencil tasks
*    Limit amount of information presented at a time
*    Utilize oral and visual cues and prompts


Modifications for Testing

*    Allow student to utlilize notes, study guides, and organizers during tests
*    Teach test taking strategies
*    Allow extra time
*    Provide word banks
*    Read and explain test directions and questions to student
*    Assess learning over time
*    Allow student to respond to questions in a variety of ways
*    Accept shorter written answers
*    Utilize various methods of assessment (rubrics, oral performance, written performance)

   
Modifications for Organization

*    Utilize graphic organizers
*    Utilize assignment notebooks
*    Teach calendar skills
*    Teach student how to plan for daily activities
*    Teach time management skills
*    Teach the use of folders and notebooks
*    Teach student how to clean desk, backpack
*    Ensure that the student has appropriate materials
*    Provide a place for the student to turn in assignments as they are completed
*    Check with student before he/she leaves for the day