Do you get as confused as I do sometimes with all of the nomenclature of special education? I recently had a discussion with a PIN specialist regarding the difference between accomodations and modifications. The Arizona Department of Education Parent Information Network provides a glossary of terms, and this is what they say.
Accomodations -
“provisions made to allow a student to access and demonstrate learning. Accommodations do not substantially change the instructional level, the content or the performance criteria, but are made in order to provide a student equal access to learning and equal opportunity to demonstrate what is known. Accommodations shall not alter the content of the curriculum or a test, or provide inappropriate assistance to the student within the context of the test. “
Modifications -
“substantial changes in what a student is expected to learn and to demonstrate. Changes may be made in the instructional level, the content or the performance criteria. Such changes are made to provide a student with meaningful and productive learning experiences, environments and assessments based on individual needs and abilities.”
So, the next time you are in an IEP, ask about each adjustment. Is it an accomodation or a modification? And, how does that affect my child?
Good luck!!
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