Modules+10-April+12-18

Learning Disabilities
 * April 11, 2010

Objectives: SWBAT**
 * Identify the characteristics of learning disabilities through online research, through simulation and through personal experience.
 * Reflect on the subject of learning disabilities and the connection between meeting student needs while maintaining high expectations.

//There could be an entire class dedicated to learning disabilities. However, the following tasks will help you get a snap shot of the topic. It is highly likely that you have all had experience with students with learning disabilities and/or that you yourself have been diagnosed with learning disabilities. It is a broad topic, and there are lots of avenues to explore! We will be able to touch on other special education topics, such as reading, Response to Intervention (RTI), etc. in other modules as well.// We decided that since learning disabilities are most //prevalent, we would focus on them for this week. Next week, Module 11, will be an overview of other disabilities followed by ELL--which is NOT a disability but a high priority when considering differentiation. Since our spring break is next week, we'll be posting Module 11 on Tuesday, April 13th.//
 * Learning Disabilities: An Overview**

1. **Go to** LD Online a.) Be sure to read all four topics under Getting Started. b.) Peruse the website, focusing on something of interest to you. c.) Post on the Ning Forum regarding the topic you explored--what? why? connections? wonderings? ideas? (Post at least once, respond at least once) d.) Sign up to receive the newsletter--It's Free!

2. Watch this YouTube video: What are Learning Disabilities? There other YouTube videos you may want to explore that better explain Dysgraphia, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia and other LD's--check them out if you are interested!

3. **Go to Misunderstood Minds**

a. Click on a topic--Attention, Reading, Writing, Mathematics. b. Explore the following links for each of the topics:

4. Explore the following sites as well.
 * Learning Disabilities Association of America
 * National Center for Learning Disabilities

5. Create a 350-500 word (at least) **written reflection** that answers the following question(s). Post on the Ning Forum for Module 10: Reflection. Name the document: FirstNameLastInitialReflection10.doc //**How do we increase students’ possibility of success, especially those with learning disabilities, without lowering the standards, or expectations? What does "high expectations" and using UDL principles look like in a classroom of diverse learners?**//

6. Work on your **final projects**! :)