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For educators, keeping a classroom organized and structured can be difficult. For special education teachers, it can sometimes seem impossible. Teacher lesson plans help educators enter a class prepared with objectives and strategies for their goals. However, special education requires a lot of extra effort, changing plans when they go awry, helping students struggling to comprehend material and working hard to achieve the main objectives.

While many websites offer teacher lesson plans, some are better than others for finding lesson plan ideas and building upon them. After special education teachers develop their teaching style, understand their students’ capabilities and craft realistic goals, they can create their own lesson plans that fit the class’s specific needs and they can use the Internet to help get them started on preparing the right lesson plans.

Creating special education lesson plans

While many lesson plans can be used universally, special education requires a bit more crafting. Even the best special education lesson plans will be catered to a specific class style and level of development. Each teacher must do some added work to decide what parts of the lesson plan need to be adjusted for the class as a whole.

Certain students will also require varying levels of attention in their assignments. Special education teachers know how important it is to individually work around their student’s abilities and lesson plans can incorporate different approaches for specific students.

Learning from experience

Special education teachers learn a great deal from their experience in handling each class. They might utilize some of their past experiences years later with similar students and have new ways of handling difficult situations.

A special education lesson plan might seem like a disaster the first time around, but as the teacher redevelops the outline based on what events occurred, he or she can better prepare for where the objectives did not come through and how assignments and instructions could be better explained.

Where the lesson plan ends

Lesson plans are a crucial part of any teacher’s approach to the classroom. However, they are just one added tool in the educator’s belt. A great lesson plan can help special education teachers maintain better control of their classroom with clearer objectives and purposeful assignments.

As the course unfolds, teachers can make adjustments and rework their lesson plans to accommodate their students’ needs. While a lesson plan may work well with one class, the next year it may bring about a completely different result. Teachers must not get discouraged and instead use their own experiences and the lesson plans of other educators to keep changing their work and preparing for each new class.

Online teacher lesson plans

Technology has embedded itself into nearly every aspect of education. Today, teachers can find lesson plans online to help them get a jump start on the course or compare how others are approaching the curriculum. Many websites showcase free lesson plans and some include categories for special education. Here are some popular websites for finding free teacher lesson plans in special education:

• Teacher Planet
• Teachers.net
• TeAchnology

The importance of top quality

Every teacher knows that the quality of a lesson plan is determined by how well it can be followed during a course. Top-end materials yield more engagement from students who will better follow handouts and assignments and show more interest in the studies.

While there are many online lesson plans available for free on the Internet, another option is to purchase them at sites like TeachersPayTeachers, which lets educators upload and sell their own lesson plans, prompting them to put more effort into their work and allowing other teachers to buy, review and rate each lesson plan.

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Special Education and Needs Resources

Get Help Teaching Special Needs Students

Special education resources by topic.

Accommodations and Environment Curriculum Support IEP Resources Behavior Management Special Education Inclusion

Understanding that special education resources are applicable to both general education and special education teachers alike, TeacherVision provides resources that can be used as part of an IEP both in the general education classroom and in specialist resources rooms. Our resources have been curated from leading special education partners and publishers, and are easily categorized for the most common uses by both generalists and specialists.

What Is Special Education?

Special education can generally be defined as the integration of instructional, behavioral, social-emotional, developmental, and curricular support services and strategies designed to help students with disabilities learn. Special education resources and services are usually delivered across a variety of school settings, depending on the needs of the child and the availability of school staff and environment.

Some special education students may spend part of their time in an integrated classroom, receiving instruction from generalists and interacting with classmates, with scheduled interventions from specialists (speech, language, behavioral, physical therapy, etc.). Others may spend the bulk of their time in dedicated special services environments, with specialized physical, developmental, and learning supports.

Most students designated for special education services will receive an Individualized Education Program (IEP). IEP special education services take into account the varying needs among special education students, and tailor learning and specialized services for each individual student. In most cases, an IEP special education plan involves the development and implementation of specific accommodations designed to meet the needs of each individual student, both in the general education classroom and in specialist resource rooms.

Accommodations and Environment

These special education classroom resources have been specially selected to help general and special education teachers with instructional and environmental accommodations and supports, such as assessment accommodation, special education classroom setup, accommodations for disabilities, and more.

Curriculum Support

These resources provide generalists and special education teachers with strategies and tools for developing and implementing special education curriculum supports. Included are special education lesson plans, special education activities, and other materials for academic instruction and support.

Behavior Management

Use these special education behavior management resources to plan and implement behavior management strategies in integrated and special education classrooms.

IEP Resources

This collection of IEP special education resources gives general education teachers, special education teachers, and parents all the IEP forms, accommodations, strategies, and advice necessary for planning and implementing an Individualized Education Plan in both the general ed classroom and specialist resource rooms.

Special Education Inclusion

Various techniques, tips, and suggestions for promoting special education inclusion in integrated general education classrooms are included in these resources, such as, using stories about children with disabilities to teach others, and proactive tips and effective techniques in your classroom.

Lesson Plans and Activities

These guides can assist you with creating lesson plans and activities in special education and inclusion settings. Find information on special end support, listening comprehension, and project-based learning so you have the tools to support your students' growth.

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Home » Tips for Teachers » 12 Resources for Special Education Teachers to Enhance Learning and Maximize Student Success

12 Resources for Special Education Teachers to Enhance Learning and Maximize Student Success

As a special education teacher, you are always looking for new and innovative ways to help your students learn. One way is to incorporate the use of technology into your teaching practice.

With the right websites, you can provide engaging lessons that will help your students reach their full potential. In this article, we’ll explore 10 websites that offer resources specifically designed for special education teachers. From online courses to interactive tools and games, these sites have something for everyone – no matter what level of experience or expertise they possess. So let’s dive in!

After readind this article you’ll know about:

• Teacher Vision →
• LD OnLine →
• AFIRM modules →
• The National Center for Learning Disabilities →
• Education Commission of the States →
• National Education Association →
• Paths to Literacy →
• 3 benefits of using these tools →

It’s no secret that special education teachers have a lot of work to do. We have a lot to do, create, and remember! Let’s face it, we need to find ways to make our jobs as special education teachers more manageable. To make your job at least a little easier, I’ve picked up 12 sites that will help solve this or that issue more effectively.

1. Naset — promoting the profession

NASET (National Association of Special Education Teachers) provides a unique platform for special education teachers to come together and support one another in the pursuit of modern professional development. With an exclusive focus on this vital field, NASET offers members invaluable opportunities to enhance their skillet and stay abreast of advancements within specialized teaching.

What is it?

For over a decade, NASET has been the go-to provider for professional development in special education. Today they have evolved their online platform to include an impressive array of courses, lectures, PowerPoint presentations and resources that aim to better equip educators working with those who need it most. With such vast content available now at its fingertips – from publications to webinars – this invaluable resource continues supporting teachers on their journey towards making real change in learners’ lives around the world.

One organization stands at the forefront of special education: NASET. Its members stay informed on issues that matter, while striving to provide excellence in research, practice and policy innovation for students across the nation.

What Resources You Will Find :

• ABA to Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Behavior Assessment to Bullying
• Cerebral Palsy to Curriculum Based Assessment
• Deafness to Extended School Year Services
• Fetal Alcohol Syndrome to Government Agencies
• High Stakes Testing to Interventions
• Journals to Literacy Resources
• Magazines to No Child Left Behind (NCLB)
• Occupational Therapy to Psychological Terminology
• Q & A about IDEA to Rights of Children with Disabilities
• Setting Up Your Classroom to Triennial Preparation
• Videos to Who are the Children in Special Education?

2. Teacher Vision — all tips

Teacher Vision provides the cutting edge resources teachers need to support their students. Their team of certified, current classroom educators reviews and creates materials that are accurate, up-to-date and reflect changing educational needs.

With over two decades of experience, Teacher Vision has been a leading provider of educational materials and resources to educators across the nation – from early education to high school. Millions trusts them for quality tools that enhance other’s teaching.

Teaching is more than just a job – it’s an opportunity to bring your vision to life. When the daily duties seem overwhelming and start threatening that dream, Teacher Vision is here with thousands of resources created by teachers for teachers: from standards-aligned lesson plans, helpful classroom management advice or stress relief workbooks.

• Informative articles on mental health and well-being, developmental and learning disabilities, and ADD/ADHD
• Tools you can use to help your students adjust to grades
• Grading tips
• Case studies to learn how to grade a student
• Teaching articles on how to teach and manage children with special needs

3. Learning Disabilities Online — information and support

Struggling with learning disabilities can be a challenging experience, but LD OnLine is here to help. Our comprehensive resource provides crucial information and support needed for both children and parents alike; this includes hundreds of articles written by experts on the subject as well as videos, columns in addition to personal essays from experienced individuals & artworks submitted by kids too!

With over 25 years’ worth of insight into disability-related issues within education environments – let us assist you through your journey towards understanding what it takes to make successful progress.

LD OnLine is determined to open doors of opportunity for both children and adults, arming them with the knowledge they need about learning disabilities and ADHD. LD OnLine provides invaluable resources to help teens and adults navigate the transition from school into higher education or meaningful employment. Our information also helps individuals with learning disabilities confront challenges which can otherwise impede success in these goals.

• Teaching mathematics
• Teaching writing
• Developing language and reading skills
• Using technology in the classroom

4. Do2Learn — innovation tools

Do2Learn began in 1996 with the help of a grant from the National Institutes of Health, seeking to bring together passionate educators and clinicians with tech experts. Together, they collaborate on developing innovative tools so that people like you can access their knowledge and resources worldwide.

Do2Learn began as a local resource, but soon blossomed into an international source of information. With over 11 million visitors per month and fierce search engine rankings, half their users come from abroad! This success is largely due to the thousands of sites that link back – in particular for picture cards, facial expressions and job tips searches.

Do2Learn understands that busy teachers and professionals need more than just instructions on how to adapt their classrooms for children with special needs – they need resources. That’s why Do2Learn provides access to a Teacher Toolbox containing not only behavior management plans and literacy tools, but also free picture cards as part of the package! Making it easier than ever before to devise successful visual communication systems in your classroom.

• Free pages with social skills
• Behavioral regulation activities and guidance
• Learning songs and games
• Communication cards
• Academic material
• Transition guides for employment and life skills

5. AFIRM Modules — autism focused

The AFIRM modules are your comprehensive guide to expertly implementing evidence-based practices (EBP) with students on the autism spectrum, from infants to those up through age 22. Obtain valuable resources and materials right away — all available for download.

Autism Focused Intervention Resources & Modules (AFIRM) is an extension of the National Professional Development Center (NPDC) on ASD.

• A summary and example of each AFIRM resource
• Evidence-base
• Step-by-Step Guide
• Implementation Checklist
• Data Collection Sheets

If you work with children with autism, I recommend watching this video.

6. The National Center for Learning Disabilities — learning about disabilities

Explore the vast catalog of resources available at the National Center for Learning Disabilities. Broaden your understanding on learning disabilities with videos and informative articles, each carefully crafted to provide an in-depth insight.

NCLD seeks to provide a brighter future for the 1 in 5 individuals with learning and attention issues. For over four decades, they have advocated for equal rights and opportunities so that those affected can develop essential academic, social, and emotional skills needed to succeed both inside of school walls and outside them. With proper support from NCLD’s team of specialists – all capable young people facing these issues are given every chance possible to reach their full potentials.

To learn more about the activities of this site, I suggest you watch this video.

• Navigating teacher-parent relationships
• Using assistive technology
• Using the 504 plan or the Individualized Education Program (IEP)

7. The Education Commission of the States — navigation of every aspect of education

Education Commission of the States empowers state policymakers with personalized support and innovative networking opportunities. By bridging education leaders together, their programs provide a platform for knowledge sharing to develop effective policy across states.

Their team of experts equips policymakers with the resources necessary to understand and navigate every aspect of education from preschool through career advancement. With their help, we all have a chance for brighter futures.

Connect with educators from around the United States and discover their unique approaches to meeting student needs by attending various events and workshops! Make lasting connections, learn new skills, and explore innovative strategies in order to best serve your students.

8. Raz-Kids — ebooks for everyone

Designed to keep kids engaged and motivated, their interactive learning portal provides access to leveled text in both online and mobile formats. Kids can listen, read at their own pace, or record themselves reading the eBooks before taking a corresponding quiz that evaluates comprehension. As they complete ten books with passing scores on each of the quizzes associated with them, students will level up – advancing into more challenging texts.

Raz-Kids is an innovative education solution that equips teachers with hundreds of leveled e-books at varying degrees of difficulty. Easy to use, this award-winning resource ensures every student has access to the appropriate content for their educational needs.

• 800+ leveled eBooks for students to practice reading anytime, anywhere
• Corresponding eQuizzes that measure student comprehension
• Spanish eBook and eQuiz translations for ELLs and bilingual programs
• Digital management and reporting tools to easily track individual and class-wide reading progress

9. The Bureau of Labor Statistics — professional development

Becoming a special education teacher can open up many doors – the BLS is here to help you take that first step. With statistics on job outlook and information on how to enter this rewarding field, discover what it takes for a successful career in teaching. You’ll experience not just personal growth within your profession, but also be able to explore different parts of our country; get ready for an exciting journey.

• Games and Quizzes
• Student’s desk
• Teacher’s desk

10.  National Education Association — autism and disproportionality

The National Education Association provides insightful information on special education, helping teachers better understand topics such as autism and disproportionality. With a range of resources at their fingertips, educators can easily access guidelines that provide the necessary guidance for addressing individual student needs.

As the voice of America’s educators, NEA stands at the nexus between education and a brighter future. They are honored to bear this immense responsibility in light of our nation’s commitment to public school success. Their mission is to equip education professionals as they become the backbone of a unified nation, empowering all students with necessary skills so that everyone may succeed in our increasingly interdependent world.

With the goal of providing all students in America with an excellent education, regardless of their family’s income or where they live, NEA has mobilized its 3.2 million members to enhance instruction and student success while striving for safer schools overall.

•  The Puzzle of Autism
•  Truth in Labeling: Disproportionality in Special Education

11. Paths To Literacy — working with blind

As a special education teacher for blind or visually impaired students, you need the latest information and resources to ensure their literacy development. Paths to Literacy is an excellent website that can help! On this incredible site, you’ll find up-to-date insights on stages of growth as well as challenges your students may encounter – not only that but also discover strategies and gain access to a huge library filled with helpful materials.

Perkins and TSBVI team up to create a unique online resource that seeks to expand the conversation surrounding literacy for students with visual impairments, deafblindness or other disabilities. This extended partnership is an unprecedented step in unifying resources, knowledge and insights into this critical area of study.

In 2010, two schools identified a common goal; to create an online platform where important literacy resources were saved and shared. By providing this space they aimed to help both their communities find reliable information as well as leave room for creativity and new ideas.

Paths to Literacy offers a range of information on the topic of literacy, from a basic overview to different stages of development and special challenges.

•  stages of development
• challenges your students may face
• a huge library of literacy strategies and resources

12. SENict — touch activities

This website is designed for educators of all levels to maximize their students’ engagement. Through the use of switch, touch screen, mouse and eye gaze activities impacting learning experiences are facilitated; providing training materials and professional development services further supporting this goal. Plus a plethora of resources at your fingertips will leave you feeling prepared in no time.

SENict is the website of Ian Bean. He provides expert consultation and training to leverage ICT and assistive technology in order to improve the lives of people with severe, profound, or complex additional needs. Through SENIct, Ian offers his expertise to enhance learning opportunities while also providing useful communication pathways for all ages.

• Over 500 free activities
•  27 SENict Software programs
• Four hours of training videos
•  A large collection of other training and support files

These resources can provide teachers and students with the support they need to succeed in the classroom.

3 Benefits From Considering These Tools

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of utilizing these incredible tools.

1. Customized Learning Plans

When dealing with special education, it’s essential to develop individualized learning plans for each student. Special education teaching resources can help make this process easier by providing teachers with access to customized educational activities, materials, and assessments that are tailored to meet each student’s specific needs. These materials can be used to create personalized lesson plans that will help students develop necessary skills and reach their goals faster.

2. Increased Engagement

Special education teaching resources also offer educators the opportunity to increase engagement in the classroom by incorporating interactive elements such as videos, games, and puzzles into their lessons. For example, instead of having students complete worksheets as a way to review information, teachers can use online games or videos that allow them to review material while having fun at the same time. An increase in engagement often leads to better performance and improved retention rates among students with special needs.

3. Improved Communication

Finally, special education teaching resources can help improve communication between teachers, parents, and students by providing them with an easy-to-use platform where they can track progress and share updates on homework assignments or other important information about their child’s schoolwork. This improved communication is essential for helping teachers ensure that students are getting what they need from their instruction in order to flourish academically.

Useful Resources

• How to Become a Special Education Teacher
• 6 Tips for a First-Year Special Education Teacher
• What does a special education teacher do?

Overall, there are numerous benefits associated with using special education teaching resources in the classroom. By taking advantage of these tools, educators can develop customized learning plans for each student; increase engagement through interactive elements; and improve communication between teachers, parents, and students. With so many advantages available from utilizing these resources in the classroom, it’s no wonder why more and more educators are turning to them as a way to provide better instruction for their students with special needs.

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Special Educator Survival Guide

Mastering Special Education Lesson Plans: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you ready to master your special education lesson plans up to the next level? Prepare to embark on a journey that will revolutionize your teaching experience and empower your students’ success. In this blog post, we unveil the secrets to creating exceptional special education lesson plans. From the what, how, where, and why of the concept to real-life stories and frequently asked questions, this guide will equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to make a lasting impact in your classroom.

Unleashing the Power of Special Education Lesson Plans

The Catalyst for Extraordinary Learning

How can you transform your special education classroom through effective lesson planning?

Special Education Lesson Plans are more than just a roadmap for instruction. They serve as the catalyst for extraordinary learning experiences. By adopting a structured approach and leveraging tailored strategies, you can unlock the potential of each student and ensure their individual needs are met. In this section, we’ll explore the fundamental components and benefits of special education lesson plans.

Crafting Effective Special Education Lesson Plans

From Vision to Execution

How can I create effective lesson plans that cater to diverse learner needs?

Creating effective special education lesson plans requires careful consideration and intentional design. This section will guide you through the step-by-step process of crafting comprehensive lesson plans that engage and empower your students. We’ll explore techniques for setting clear objectives, differentiating instruction, and utilizing appropriate accommodations. Prepare to discover the power of intentional planning and the impact it can have on student outcomes.

Accessing Resources for Special Education Lesson Planning

Your Toolkit for Success- parts of a special education lesson plan

From engaging warm-up activities to meaningful closure, each component plays a vital role in supporting your students’ individual needs. Join us on this journey as we delve into the essential elements that will empower you to master the art of special education lesson planning.

Setting the Stage for Success

Engaging Warm-up Activities

Every great lesson begins with an engaging warm-up activity that sparks curiosity and activates prior knowledge. Learn how to captivate your students’ attention right from the start by incorporating interactive questions, thought-provoking prompts, or intriguing visual aids. Discover the power of setting the stage for success and paving the way for meaningful learning experiences.

Crafting Clear Objectives

Navigating the Learning Path

Clear objectives provide a roadmap for your lesson and guide both you and your students throughout the learning journey. Discover strategies for formulating concise and measurable objectives that address individualized goals and align with academic standards. Learn how to break down complex concepts into manageable steps, ensuring that your students are on track to achieve success.

Differentiating Instruction

Meeting Diverse Needs

Special education classrooms thrive on differentiation, where instruction is tailored to meet the unique needs of every student. Explore techniques for providing multiple entry points, offering varied levels of support, and implementing accommodations or modifications. Discover the joy of watching each student grow and succeed within an inclusive learning environment.

Engaging Activities and Assessments

Fostering Active Learning

Engaging activities and assessments are the heart of any special education lesson plan. Dive into the world of interactive learning experiences, such as hands-on experiments, collaborative projects, or digital simulations. Learn how to design formative and summative assessments that accurately gauge student progress and inform future instruction.

Meaningful Closure and Reflection

Sealing the Learning

Closure is a critical element of effective lesson planning, as it allows students to reflect on their learning and solidify their understanding. Discover strategies for facilitating meaningful closure activities that encourage student reflection, such as exit slips, journaling, or group discussions. Learn how to celebrate achievements and set the stage for future learning.

You have now explored the key elements that make up a successful special education lesson plan. By incorporating engaging warm-up activities, clear objectives, differentiated instruction, engaging activities and assessments, and meaningful closure, you can create transformative learning experiences for your students. Remember, Cultivating Exceptional Minds is here to support you on your journey. Connect with us for further assistance and explore our Special Education Lesson Plan Template product in our TeachersPayTeachers shop. Let’s work together to unlock your full teaching potential and make a lasting impact in your special education classroom.

Overcoming Challenges and Maximizing Success

Navigating Roadblocks to Achieve Excellence

How can you overcome common challenges in special education lesson planning?

In this section, we’ll address common challenges faced by special education teachers during the lesson planning process. From time constraints to individualized accommodations, we’ll explore practical strategies to overcome these obstacles and maximize success. Discover innovative techniques to streamline your planning, effectively differentiate instruction, and ensure the success of every student in your classroom.

Remember, Cultivating Exceptional Minds is here to support you every step of the way. Connect with us for further assistance, explore our Special Education Lesson Plan Template product in our TeachersPayTeachers shop, and unlock your true teaching potential.

You are now equipped with the knowledge and tools to master special education lesson planning. By implementing the strategies and resources outlined in this guide, you can create exceptional learning experiences that meet the unique needs of your students. Read more lesson-planning tips here in this blog post !

Ready to transform your special education lesson plans? Connect with Cultivating Exceptional Minds today for personalized assistance and explore our Special Education Lesson Plan Template product on our TeachersPayTeachers shop. Let’s work together to create exceptional learning experiences for your students!

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Your One-Stop Shop for Special Education Lesson Plans and Resources

TeachTastic Publishing provides a wide range of resources and materials that are specifically designed to support special education teachers in creating effective lesson plans and teaching students with diverse learning needs.

With a variety of materials available for students with different levels of prior learning and learning disabilities, TeachTastic Publishing provides a comprehensive suite of resources that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.

Free Lesson Plan Templates

Whether a teacher is looking for free lesson plans, examples of effective accommodations and modifications in a lesson plan, or strategies for integrating technology into the classroom, TeachTastic Publishing has everything that a special education teacher needs to help their students succeed.

Learn How Our Special Education Lesson Plans Can Help Your Students in all Content Areas

And if you ever get stuck just give us a help request - we are always here ready help out with anything you might need along the way. so what are you waiting for get started on making this school year amazing right now by bookmarking or sharing our smart iep goals and objectives bank today.

Special education lesson plans that are scaffolded and differentiated for students with diverse learning needs.

Lesson plans cover math, reading, and writing and are designed to meet the needs of all students, regardless of prior knowledge or learning disability.

Curriculum for kindergarten through 6th grade includes all major learning objectives.

Nothing makes a special education lesson better than having built-in direct instruction that students understand, along with tips for many learning disabilities.

Providing educators with easy-to-follow directions, thoughtful teaching tip ideas, free resources, and classroom activities to use to help their students with special needs.

Our Comprehensive Curriculum Covers All Major Learning Objectives for Special Education Students in Kindergarten Through Sixth Grade

At TeachTastic Publishing, we provide a comprehensive special education curriculum tailored to meet the needs of students with diverse learning needs. Our curriculum is available for kindergarten through 6th-grade students and covers all major learning objectives. We offer math, reading, and writing lessons that are scaffolded and differentiated for all learning disabilities, ensuring every student has access to quality education and equal opportunities for success.

Our Lesson Plans

Scaffolding and differentiation strategies for teaching math to special education students.

Math Lesson Plans TeachTastic Publishing’s math lesson plans are designed to help students with diverse learning needs understand mathematical concepts.  

We offer differentiated and scaffolded lesson plans for all learning disabilities, making math accessible to every student. Our math lesson plans include strategies such as modified worksheets, task analysis, graphic organizers, peer tutoring, and mnemonics, ensuring that students understand the material and make progress.

Even More Lesson Plans

Incorporate Direct Instruction Strategies into Your Lesson Plans for Maximum Student Learning & Success

Direct Instruction TeachTastic Publishing’s lesson plans include built-in direct instruction to help students understand and retain the material. Our direct instruction strategies are designed to be engaging and effective for students with diverse learning needs. Our direct instruction strategies include strategies for math, reading, and writing lessons and are tailored to meet the individual needs of each student.  

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NeuronUP. Web platform of cognitive rehabilitation

10 activities for students with special education needs

More than 7 million students, or about 15% of those ages 3 to 21, received special education services in the 2020-21 school year under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

To ensure the quality of special education services and meet the many needs in their classrooms, teachers must invest a considerable amount of time in tailoring lessons and materials to their students.

In fact, what makes the role of a special educator especially challenging is the number and diversity of needs in a classroom. Teachers must support not only the academic needs of their students, but also communication, behavioral and physical needs, among others. However, special education teachers often operate without adequate materials to address these needs.

According to a survey conducted by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) 72% of teachers of students with special needs modify their curriculum to support their individualization either most of the time or always. Moreover, teachers rank adequate resources requirements as the most important criteria for their success.

The lack of materials places a significant extra burden on teachers. Therefore, here are 10 activities developed to help learners with special needs achieve a higher level of self-sufficiency and success in school and in their community.

Activities for students with special education needs

Below you will find 10 exercises developed for special education teachers under the principles of ecological validity and generalizability with the aim of unlocking students’ potential by addressing their special needs through cognitive stimulation activities in the classroom.

You will be able to customize and adapt the activities to their needs and capabilities increasing students’ motivation and engagement , thus enhancing their performance.  

1. Word Fishing

What does it consist of.

The first activity to work with special needs students that we present is Word Fishing . In this game students have to make words by putting syllables or individual letters in the correct order. It is divided into six levels of difficulty. They will automatically move up or down a level depending on his or her successes or mistakes.

We show you an example in the following video.

Activity customization

You will be able to customize this activity to meet the individual needs and capabilities of each child, being able to set the general features and parameters.

General features

On the one hand, you can adjust general features such as the number of exercises, the maximum time, whether or not you want a visible timer for the activity and an inactivity warning, or you can modify the instructions if you wish.

And, on the other hand, the parameters, where you can select:

• Number of word parts.
• Movement of elements.
• Type of word parts: syllables or letters.
• Maximum errors.

What does this activity work?

This activity works:

• Working memory.
• Vocabulary.
• Hemineglect.

2. Who raised their hand?

In this activity children have to remember the order in which the classmates raised their hands to ask for a turn to speak and reproduce it. We show you an example below.

You will be able to customize this activity and set the general features and parameters:

You can adjust general features such as the number of exercises, the maximum time, whether or not you want a visible timer for the activity, the number of tries and an inactivity warning, or you can modify the instructions if you wish.

And, on the other side, the parameters, where you can select:

• Sequence length.
• Memorization time (sec).
• Number of elements.

This special needs activity works:

• Episodic memory.

3. Correct Image Name

Correct Image Name is a worksheet in which students must determine which word matches the image shown.

Work by levels

In addition, this exercise has different levels of difficulty so that the teacher can adapt the activity to the needs of each student with special needs: basic, easy, medium, difficult and advanced.

Here is an example of a medium level worksheet to work with people with special education needs.

This worksheet is available in both digital and paper format.

This activity works on discrimination.

4. Get Dressed

Another NeuronUP activity for k-12 students with special needs to work on ADLs that we highlight is Get Dressed . In this game they have to appropriately dress a mannequin in terms of the order and placement of the items of clothing as well as the type of situation.

In the example below, students have to dress the woman for a special occasion.

You will be able to customize the activity to suit the special needs and abilities of each student.

On the one hand, you can set general features. Here you can delimit the number of exercises, the maximum time, whether or not you want a visible timer for the activity and an inactivity warning, or you can modify the instructions.

• Clothing: all or basic ones only.
• Presentation of the clothing in order.
• Matching clothing.
• Setting: categories or wardrobe.
• Type of distractors: none, obvious or diverses.
• Maximum errors per type.
• Decision making.
• Body schema.

5. Pack your Backpack

This daily living activity involves packing the backpack for school by selecting only the objects necessary for that day of school. The aim of the game is that the children with special education needs don’t forget anything , but also they don’t have to pack things that they won’t need . Here is a medium level example.

You will be able to customize this activity to suit the individual needs and abilities of each child and set the general features and parameters:

In this ADL you can adjust general features such as the number of exercises, the maximum time, whether or not you want a visible timer for the activity and an inactivity warning, or you can modify the instructions if you wish.

And in terms of parameters you can select:

• Number of subjects and type.
• Hints: visible, hidden or none.
• Distractors: related, unrelated, all or none.

This special needs resource works:

• Selective attention.

6. Pocket Money

This exercise is a generator. Generators allow you to create  unlimited and ecological activities . The student can never memorize the answer, since each instance is different. This special education activity consists of selecting the amount of money requested . An example is shown below.

You will be able to customize this activity to suit the students’ individual needs and abilities. In addition, you can setup the general features and parameters.

In this generator you can configure general features such as the operation (correction or free mode and maximum errors allowed), the maximum time, whether or not you want a visible timer for the activity and an inactivity warning. Moreover, you will be able to modify the instructions if you wish.

As for the parameters, you can select:

• Type of currency.
• Type of amounts: integers or decimals.
• Range of amounts: from 0 to 1,500.
• Largest bill/coin.

7. What is the best thing to do?

This worksheet consists of  analyzing a situation and seeing what would be the right way to behave in it. Life is full of choices, and it is not always easy to make the right one. By showing different cases adapted to reality and giving them several behavioral options, we teach children to question several aspects of situations they may encounter in their daily lives and weigh the consequences of their decisions.

What is better to do? is organized into five levels of difficulty: basic, easy, medium, difficult and advanced.

In the following video we show you an example of how to work with this activity with students with special education needs.

Ways to work with this special education resource

Correction mode: the platform corrects the student after each action. Free mode: the platform does not correct the student until the end of the exercise.

This worksheet is available is also available on paper format for you to work with your students.

This activity works on social cognition.

8. Space Conquest

In this set in space game, students have to jump between the moving planets until they arrive to their final destination. As in all NeuronUP games, the difficulty levels up and down automatically according to their progress. In addition, the professional can choose the level manually. In this image we show you a medium level example to work with students with special needs.

This special needs activity can be customized to meet the needs and abilities of each student. You can also establish the general features and parameters.

In this game you can adjust general features such as the number of exercises, the maximum time, whether or not you want a visible timer for the activity, an inactivity warning and you can customize the instructions.

You can customize some parameters such as:

• Number of rows on the screen.
• Number of total rows.
• Distractors: no, some or all.

This game works on:

• Spatial relationship.
• Sustained attention.
• Inhibition.
• Processing speed.

9. That’s Odd!

This generator consists of categorizing numbers as odd or even . It is an activity for students with special needs to become familiar with numbers before learning to do counting. Below you will find an example.

You can tailor this activity to the students’ individual needs and abilities and you can set the general features and parameters.

In this generator you can set up general features such as the operation (correction or free mode and maximum errors allowed), the maximum time, whether or not you want a visible timer for the activity and an inactivity warning. In addition, you can modify the instructions.

You can customize the following parameters:

• Range of numbers: from 1 to 9,999.
• Number of numbers.
• Adaptability: whether the student has to drag or click to select the numbers.

This activity works semantic memory.

10. Waiter in Action

Special education students, who take on the role of waiters, have to pay attention to the different dishes ordered in a restauran t in this activity. They must serve each customer the ordered dish and be attentive as the dishes will change. The game is divided into various levels. Level 1 being the easiest and level 9 being the most complicated. In the following video you can find an example of how to work with this exercise:

This special education resource can be customized to meet the needs and capabilities of each student. General features and parameters can also be set.

In this game you can configure general features such as the number of exercises, the maximum time, whether or not you want a visible timer for the activity and an inactivity warning, or you can personalize the instructions.

In addition, you can edit specific parameters such as:

• Visible elements: number of diners and number of food items.
• The alternation.
• The variety of elements.
• The number of target stimuli.
• Correction criteria: totals, errors and omissions.
• Number of stimuli.
• Time of permanence of the stimuli.

Waiter in Action works on:

• Alternating attention.

Extra activity to work with students with special needs: Hidden Code

Hidden Code is the last activity to work at the classroom with students with special education needs consists of finding as quickly as possible the numbers that stay still among a group of numbers that are constantly changing.

For example, in the following medium level exercise students have to discover the hidden 4-digit code.

You will be able to customize this activity and set the general features and parameters.

You can set, on the one hand, the general features such as the number of exercises, the maximum time, whether or not you want a visible timer for the activity and an inactivity warning, or you can modify the instructions if you wish.

• Size of matrix: number of rows/columns.
• Number of motionless elements.
• Distribution of motionless elements: square, horizontal, vertical or random.
• Visual gnosis.

NeuronUP for Special Education

Unleash your students’ full potential by addressing their special needs through cognitive stimulation in the classroom.

Bibliography

Fowler, S. A., Coleman, M. R. B., & Bogdan, W. K. (2019). The State of the Special Education Profession Survey Report. Arlington, VA: Council for Exceptional Children.

National Center for Education Statistics. (2022). Students With Disabilities.  Condition of Education . U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences. Retrieved June 23, 2022, from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cgg

If you liked this post on 10 activities for students with special education needs, you may be interested in these NeuronUP posts:

Guidelines to implement inclusive education and how to use NeuronUP for this purpose

Rehabilitation of attention and inhibition in ADHD

Cognitive stimulation exercises for people with Down syndrome

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Fall Lesson Plans and Resources for Any Special Ed Classroom

Fall is a refreshing time of year with those crunching leaves and breaths of fresh air. Not to mention, you’re likely settling into the school year with your new students.

So if you’re searching for Autumnn lesson plans and resources for your classroom, look no further!

Here are 10 of our favorite Fall resources:

Fall Literacy Lessons 

The  Autumn Adapted Piece Book Set  is a seasonal staple for storytime. These interactive pieces will help you transform eight of the most famous children’s books into an exciting reading experience. We’ve found that even students who don’t love reading enjoy these! This set includes pieces for titles such as Red Leaf Yellow, Leaf, Ten Orange Pumpkins, and Pumpkin Jack. 

Teach your students about the changing seasons with this  Autumn Adapted Book  and use it during small group instruction or morning meetings. This reader focuses on changing leaves, Fall holidays, and other seasonal vocabulary.

Have you read Fletcher and the Falling Leaves? This is an adorable Fall story about a fox named Fletcher who worries when the leaves start falling from his favorite tree. The  Fletcher and the Falling Leaves Book Companio n is filled with cross-curricular, no-prep lesson extensions. It’s a story unit made easy! 

Fall Life Skill Lesson Plans

Give students the chance to practice an important life skill, addressing envelopes! The Fall version of  Addressing an Envelope  will prepare an envelope with ‘to’ and ‘from’ labels, as well as a stamp. This center time activity comes in 2 levels, “errorless” and fill-in-the-blank. 

Get students in the swing of dressing for the season with the  Dress Me for the Seasons File Folder  game. Practice the same skill in a different format with these  Seasonal Clothing Sorting Mats .

Fall Lesson Plan Bundles

 The  All About Autumn Bundle  is an all-encompassing unit that includes math, science, and ELA activities. It also has three Fall book companions! This bundle will help you fill your Fall planner with the click of a few buttons and very little prep. Similarly, this  Autumn Thematic Unit  will get your students excited about the season with vocabulary cards, readers, graphic organizers, graphing activities, science activities, and more!

The  Seasons Adapted Work Binder  is a great tool for morning work. This work binder is filled with functional and differentiated skill work that includes labeling seasonal pictures, sorting seasonal pictures, and identifying months within each season. 

More Fall Lesson Plans

Students can practice following step-by-step directives and visual-motor skills with these  Autumn Directed Drawings . This set gives students the chance to draw ten different Fall designs, including scarecrows, acorns, sunflowers, leaves, and more. 

The  Fall Memory Digital Activity  is an excellent independent task that can be set out during center time or for early finishers. This paperless skill work has thirty different pages, all in the theme of Fall! If you love this one, you’ll want to check out the  Autumn Digital Activity Bundle  as well. 

Debate time:  When you teach this unit, do you call it Fall or Autumn? Let us know in the comments! 

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

• 20 Autumn Books for Any Classroom
• Messaging Platforms to Communicate with Parents
• What Special Ed Teachers Want Parents to Know

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Special Education and Inclusive Learning

150 EYFS & SEN Sensory Learning Ideas

Free, simple sensory activities for eyfs or sen.

There are many options for embedding effective sensory learning curriculums for children who cannot access worksheets and online teaching resources. Sensory learners need sensory learning ideas. Preferably simple and free ones. This list of 150 (ish) ideas should give you some ideas to try at home, EYFS settings and in classrooms. You may also like our post on Scavenger hunts for children at home.

 If you really liked this list of sensory learning activities and SEN activities for Early Years please consider sharing it on Twitter, Pinterest or Facebook.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sensory Learning

Before we look at the ideas here are 10 FAQs about educational sensory learning:

• What is sensory learning? Sensory learning involves using the five senses – sight, sound, smell, touch and taste – to engage students in the learning process. When multiple senses are stimulated during hands-on activities, it can enhance memory, and focus and help children understand concepts.
• How does it benefit students? Sensory learning activities have been shown to boost brain development and skill retention. Multi-sensory input allows students to make real-world connections and learn in their preferred modalities. Research also links sensory activities to improved behaviour, focus and academic achievement.
• What types of sensory activities are most effective? Activities involving movement and tactile experiences tend to be most engaging. Things like outdoor exploration, playdough, sand or water play activate vestibular and proprioceptive senses for better attention. Multi-step sensory bins require problem-solving, numbering and literacy skills.
• How can it be used across subjects? Sensory maths uses objects like paint, rice or play money to learn addition/subtraction. For science, students can touch/observe real plants/animals. Sand trays bring stories and history to life. Music encourages creativity and language development. Cooking integrates reading/following directions and collecting data.
• How do I get started with sensory activities? Begin by only selecting 1-2 activities related to your lesson to keep focus. Introduce materials one at a time. Model expected behaviours. Give concrete directions and don’t expect too much at first. Remember to make activities open-ended for various engagement levels. Start simply and expand options over time. Do not worry about having your activities look instagram-worthy.
• Are there safety considerations? Yes, supervise all activities closely at first. Avoid anything with small parts for choking hazards. Be conscious of allergies/sensitivities. Wash hands after messy play. Sanitise materials and organise areas to be clutter-free. Be inclusive of sensory needs and don’t force participation.
• How can I fit it into a busy schedule? Incorporate movement into transitions whenever possible. Use sensory activities at centres during work time. Replace less engaging tasks with sensory options. Sensory stations outside of lessons can stimulate development too. Just 5-10 minutes regularly makes a difference without disrupting routines. Finger Gym can be a brilliant filler activity and sometimes you need hands-on activities that calm the class .
• How do I ensure focus on learning? Explain how sensory activities connect to subject learning. Have students discuss the purpose and identify targets. Guide participation toward goals using specific questions/feedback. Rather than rewards, praise effort/progress in skill-building. Observe for understanding before/after doing a hands-on task.
• How can parents support at home? Suggest carrying over learning from activities by discussing takeaways from school. Recommend using common household items for sensory experiences related to current topics. Share activity ideas through newsletters and encourage caregivers to participate in school events promoting the approach.
• What research supports the approach? Studies have found that sensory-rich classrooms see increased engagement, self-regulation, literacy/numeracy skills and focus. The neural mechanisms behind multisensory learning are well-documented too (Shams & Seitz, 2008) .

Proprioceptive Sensory Learning Activities

Balance walk along masking tape on the floor:

Tight hugs administered by a trusted adult.

Sensory Circuit Activities:

• Wall pushes
• Hand Squeezes
• Superhero poses
• Animal Walk – Based on our sensory trail
• Bear stretch

Follow the light/Follow the sound – The child’s whole head/body follows the movement of a torch

Vestibular Sensory Learning Activities

Imitate head positions

Sway in time with chill out music

Back and forth rowing

Spinning (10 seconds in each direction)

Jumping Jacks

Musical statues

Scooter rides

Cone spinner

Auditory Sensory Learning Activities

Guess the sounds:

• Animals – Great animal sound video here.
• Vehicles – Great vehicle sound video here.
• Instruments – Pretty tricky instrument video here

(you can link this to a “What’s in the bag” game)

Make a rain tube

Bottle blowing

Guess the song intro – Use favourite cartoon theme tunes. A CBeebies video playlist here.

Follow a drum beat – use biscuit tin or saucepan with wooden spoon

Follow a clap pattern

Discrimination Sound Game make a sound and see if the child can work out if it is:

• Near or Far
• Soft or Loud
• High or Low

Visual Sensory Learning Activities

Drop & watch bouncy balls

Colour mixing

Washing up liquid and food colouring experiment

Torch/Light Activities:

• Shadow Puppet Play
• Make numbers with your fingers
• Guess animals from silhouette
• Tray and guess shapes from silhouette
• Guess book characters from silhouette (Gruffalo etc)
• Put into tupperware and retrieve/Watch
• Create a light table .

Find items of interest in a picture/Find self in pictures

Sensory bottles

Sort boxes shape/size

Pile and knock down boxes/tower building

Pull colourful fabric slowly from a bag

Taste and Mouth Sensory Learning Activities

• Boats with straws
• Cotton Balls

This can help with limited diets and support food chaining .

• Crunchy/Chewy Items – Alternate
• Smooth, rough foods (smooth and crunchy peanut butter)
• Frozen Fruits
• Drink through a straw
• Cut vegetables into strips
• Smoothies – blend and taste
• Ask questions like, “Which food here tastes salty? Which ones are sweet?
• Colour cubes (cut food into cubes and sort by colour i.e cucumbers, apples.)
• Mashing foods, ripe pears, potatoes, grapes

Tactile Sensory Learning Activities

This can include essential hygiene routines such as hand washing etc. Here are more tactile sensory learning ideas that use your outdoor areas.

Sensory Ball Games:

• Throw/roll into bucket
• Different textured balls – Wrap in paper, cling film, tin foil
• Roll from head to toe and back
• Roll in playdough to make patterns
• Splat into paint and roll/throw onto paper

Touch and Texture Sensory Learning Ideas

Put objects in a box and feel/guess

Sandpaper shape cut outs

Tearing paper (either to glue onto something, or just to tear up)

Crumpling newspaper

Sponges- Get out bowls and a sponge to transfer water from one bowl to the other.

Bubble wrap popping

Tin foil sculpting or squishing

Salt painting

Shaving foam art

Sand art – glue and sand and glitter

Fizzy water play (bath bombs)

Water play – using bottles, sprays and tubes.

Stress balls

Goop/slime manipulation

Earth, sand and water trays – Classic “ We’re going on a bear hunt ” sensory activity

Hay play – hide items in hay or straw (allergies allowing)

Fine Motor Sensory Learning Activities

AAC games – Especially Shark Bite !

Use rubber gloves to make dots

Cotton buds to make dots

Use stick to trace letters/mark making

Cutting with scissors paper, straws

Ten Tweezer games

• Move items into different pots
• Pick items out of slime
• Pick items out of water
• Put items into a pattern
• Feed the dog
• Feed toy spiders to a frog
• Put beads into a bottle
• Bean number matching game
• Coloured pom-pom drop

I ce Excavations (freeze objects in ice)

Retrieve items from shaving foam

Hole punch coloured paper then use to blow/for art

Trace numbers in sand

Use a pipette to drop liquid watercolours/food colouring onto toilet paper

Clothespin Number Match

Use clothes pegs and sort by colour to a “line” of wool

Core Strength Activities

Circuit Training

• Bicycle kicks
• Stand on one leg
• Hop, skip, jump

Cosmic yoga

Body Awareness Sensory Activities

Sensory Ball throw/roll

Which hand is hiding the object?

Obstacle Course

Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes

Self-Regulation Sensory Ideas For Anxious Children

Breathing activities for anxiety. Find other self-regulation home learning ideas here.

• Blow out the candle
• Blow the windmill
• Smelling a flower
• Open a window
• What can you smell game
• Blow up a balloon

Make faces in the mirror

• Tense all face muscles
• Relax all face muscles

Count backwards

Count to 5 with a deep breath

Put beans/dried peas/rice in a balloon

Fiddle toys

Follow simple lego instructions

Make a Calm Down Jar

Create a Daisy chain or flower Bouquet

Blow up balloons

Guess the smell:

• Spices (mix with water to avoid sneezing)

Scavenger Hunts

A sensory garden is great for embedding sensory learning ideas. The suggestions below should be findable in any garden.

• Short Stick
• Thick Stick
• Shiny Stone
• Little spoon
• A frying pan

References and Further Reading About Sensory Learning

Shams, L., & Seitz, A. R. (2008). Benefits of multisensory learning .  Trends in cognitive sciences ,  12 (11), 411–417. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2008.07.006

We would love to hear your suggestions for simple free sensory learning ideas and activities that you have used. If you have a site that has a demo or resources linked to these ideas let me know and I will add a link to it.

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Free Reading Resources For Special Education

Instruction and Lesson Plans

It’s important that we have many resources at our fingertips when teaching reading because we never know what will work with our students, their needs, levels, etc. Below are a variety of free reading resources to add to your repertoire.

resources with visual supports

The shared tarheel reader has a variety of books with core boards right on the screen. Plus, there are books in a variety of languages allowing ESL students to read in their language. You can also use switches and change color contrast.

The How To… Life Skills Books are interactive and include the visual supports students need. These books are adapted for special education and speech. They will help students develop matching skills, build language (receptive and expressive) and attending skills.

Boardmaker To Go offers a free unit with visual supports such as core boards and templates.

Target core words

I love these books developed by Tobbi Dynavox that focus on core words. These books include lesson plans with multiple free books for each of the core words in the list. You can print the books or share them on a smartboard or Google Classroom.

Online Tools To Support Learning

The Unite For Literacy site has a large variety of books and read to me options. You can change the language the books are read to you based on your student’s needs as well.

The Oxford Owl ebooks have read to me options as well as annotation tools. Use the tools to highlight words, sounds, punctuation, blends, etc. These books are great when teaching remotely or during shared reading in the classroom. An account is required, but sign-up is free.

Set Up Student Access

Epic is a fantastic website that is free for teachers. It has many topics, leveled books, and read to me options. There is also an alphabet series that is great for highlighting 1 letter at a time. There are options to set up students in your teacher account. Then, you can assign books and quizzes to students, as well as get data on how long and which books students are reading.

Reading activities

Use these reading comprehension sheets in your direct instruction, reading centers, independent work systems, or for homework. They are free in our resource library. Not a member? Click HERE to join our email community.

The Matching CVC words tasks are also free in our resource library!

For students still learning their letters, grab these free alphabet poke cards . They are also in our free resource library.

Check out these blog posts for more info on teaching reading:

• Using Guided Reading In Self-contained Programs
• How To Target Reading and Language With Interactive Books
• Integrate Science and Reading

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I have found myself relying on these lesson plans and advice I’ve received from this community to be a better teacher. My students stay engaged and they are seeing photos and examples that make the content relatable. I am so thankful for this site, it’s truly my go to site for lesson planning!

The special ed lesson plans have been so helpful in my speech and language sessions. The lessons have easy to follow directions and address functional life skills that are necessary for students to learn. I like that each lesson comes with a few various types of activities, so I can focus on matching, vocabulary, comprehension, etc. Additionally, the lessons are interactive and engaging so students are having fun while learning.

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Special Education Resources & Activities

There is no doubt about it, no two children are the same, especially when it comes to learning. All children, and people in general, learn at different paces and have different learning styles. Here at Storyboard That, we create resources and lesson plans that take into account various learning styles, needs, and levels, paying close attention to the importance of differentiation. Our visual resources are particularly helpful for visual learners, nonverbal students, and students on the autism spectrum. Check out our special education resources so you can start planning and creating individualized materials to fit each student's needs today!

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Lesson Plans Special Education

We want to take this opportunity to welcome you to the exciting world of special education, where each day is an exciting new journey filled with meaningful relationships, creative challenges, and limitless chances for growth. You have arrived at the perfect location if you are an educator, administrator, or parent searching for materials to address the individual needs of your students. You might find our sample lesson plans for special education a valuable starting point. So, welcome to our Lesson Plans Special Education blog!

We understand that to create lessons for students enrolled in special education effectively. One must possess unique abilities, a passion for innovation, and an unrelenting commitment to making a difference. In this blog, we will investigate the most useful techniques, the most recent trends, and the most inventive ideas to assist you in developing lesson plans that are relevant, engaging, and effective in meeting the varied requirements of your students.

You’ll find the motivation, direction, and resources you need to succeed in special education, regardless of whether you’re an experienced professional or just getting started in the field. Differentiated instruction is one effective teaching strategy that significantly affects learning outcomes. So, let’s dive in and explore all of the options that are available to us!

Special Education Lesson Plans: What You Need To Know

Unique education lesson plans are prepared expressly to address the requirements of children with disabilities. These students may have learning problems, physical disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, or gifted and talented skills. A well-designed lesson plan for special education ensures that these students receive the assistance they require to succeed in the classroom.

Here is everything you need to know about lesson plans in special education:

• Objectives: The objectives of the lecture should be clearly defined, specific, and measurable. These objectives should be aligned with the subject and grade level requirements and adapted to each student’s needs.
• Materials: The lesson plan should include a list of the materials required. These may consist of books, workbooks, manipulatives, and other materials. It is essential to guarantee that all pupils have access to the materials and that any necessary modifications are made. Some useful teaching resources are on the Council for Exceptional Children website.
• Introduction: The introduction should engage the students and establish the context for what they will study. This could be accomplished through a warm-up activity, a question, or a real-world experience related to the lesson’s material. For tips on making engaging introductions, check out Edutopia .
• Direct Instruction: This is the primary portion of the class where the instructor actively teaches new material or skills. Lectures, demonstrations, or interactive activities may provide direct instruction. The instructor must modify the pace and difficulty level to match all students’ needs.
• Guided Practice: Guided practice allows students to apply what they have learned through controlled and assisted activities. This can be done in couples, small groups, or on an individual basis, and it can assist students in gaining confidence and knowledge of the content.
• Independent Practice: Independent practice permits students to demonstrate their comprehension of the content through independent work, such as a worksheet, a project, or a class presentation. This helps kids establish autonomy and accountability for their education.
• Assessment: Assessment is a crucial component of the lesson plan since it evaluates whether or not students have grasped the purpose. This could be a test, a written response, or a discussion in class. Both the instructor and the students should receive helpful feedback from the evaluation.
• Conclusion: The conclusion should summarize the lesson’s objective and important takeaways and preview the material covered in the upcoming class. This helps pupils connect what they have learned and what they will learn in the future and creates a feeling of closure.

In conclusion, lesson plans in special education ensure that children with disabilities receive the support they need to succeed in the classroom. It is essential to remember that each lesson plan must be modified to match the specific needs of each student and may necessitate adjustments based on their strengths and shortcomings.

How Do You Write a Special Education Lesson Plan?

When creating a lesson plan for kids in need of special education, it’s essential to keep in mind the individual requirements of each student and the overall learning objectives. The following is an outline for constructing a lesson plan for students that require special education services.

• Determine the objective: Determine your lesson’s ultimate goal as a first step. This should be an exact, quantifiable target corresponding to the grade-level and subject-specific benchmarks. When crafting the aim, it is crucial to consider the class’s diversity.
• Gather materials: The next step is gathering all the resources needed for the lesson, such as books, worksheets, manipulatives, etc. Consider what changes must be made so all kids can use the resources.
• Plan the introduction: Prepare an exciting and informative beginning to pique the students’ interest and set the stage for the rest of the lesson. Depending on the context, this might be accomplished through a question, a warm-up activity, or a real-world example related to the lesson’s topic.
• Plan direct instruction: During the direct instruction portion of the session, the teacher will teach the students new information or skills. Plan a range of lectures, presentations, and hands-on learning activities to keep students interested and involved in the subject matter.
• Plan guided practice: Make a plan for guided practice, allowing students to use their knowledge in a safe and controlled environment. Create a range of opportunities for students to put their newfound knowledge into practice, from independent study to collaborative projects.
• Plan independent practice: Arrange for students to engage in self-directed learning by completing a worksheet, a project, or a presentation outside class time. Design assignments that encourage students to take the initiative and ownership of their education.
• Plan assessment: A method to gauge whether or not students have grasped the lesson’s primary purpose is a crucial part of every lesson plan. Create a variety of assessments (quizzes, written responses, in-class conversations) that will give you and your students helpful information.
• Plan the conclusion: Concluding paragraphs should recap the lesson’s goals and significant points and provide a sneak peek at the material presented in the subsequent unit. It gives kids a sense of closure and helps them connect what they’ve learned and what they’ll learn in the future.

All students should be able to participate and learn from a special education session. Thus it’s crucial to tailor the curriculum to each student’s needs and abilities. Modifying or altering course content, examinations, or instructional methods may be necessary. To help your kids with disabilities succeed in school, you need a well-thought-out particular education lesson plan. Now you understand writing lesson plans for special education students.

Do Special Education Teachers Write Lesson Plans?

Yes, special education teachers develop lesson plans frequently because they play a crucial part in teaching kids with disabilities. Lesson plans are essential for planning and expressing a specific lesson’s educational objectives, activities, and evaluation procedures.

Lesson plans serve as a roadmap in special education to ensure that children receive the adjustments and modifications required to engage and learn in the classroom. Special education teachers utilize lesson plans in special education to differentiate instruction, align with individualized education program (IEP) objectives, and track student progress.

Special education teachers may collaborate with general education teachers to co-teach or co-plan inclusive and accessible curricula for all students. In these instances, the particular education instructor may use the lesson plan to address the specific needs of students with disabilities and ensure appropriate accommodations and modifications are in place.

When creating a lesson plan, special education teachers consider a range of aspects, including the unique requirements of their students, the learning objectives, and the instructional strategies and materials that will best promote student learning. They also consider the students’ abilities, interests, and strengths while designing exciting and relevant classes.

Special education teachers play a crucial role in designing lesson plans for special education and implementing them to ensure students with disabilities receive the necessary classroom support to succeed. Lesson plans are vital for special education teachers because they give a road map for modifying instruction and connecting it with individualized education program (IEP) objectives. There are also elementary special education lesson plans.

Jennifer Hanson  is a dedicated and seasoned writer specializing in the field of special education. With a passion for advocating for the rights and needs of children with diverse learning abilities, Jennifer uses her pen to educate, inspire, and empower both educators and parents alike.

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