Adapting Mathematics Core Curricula to Meet the Needs of Students with Disabilities (original) (raw)

Abstract

For the past 2 years, Mrs. Perez, a third-grade teacher, and Mr. Williams, a special education teacher, have co-taught a diverse class of 22 students, including 10 students with disabilities. Although they enjoy their collaborative relationship, Mrs. Perez, an 11-year veteran, would prefer to spend her day teaching reading and early writing instruction; similarly, Mr. William's love for reading and his desire to support students who struggle with reading and writing skill development motivated him to become a special education teacher. Although neither dislikes mathematics, it does not come as naturally to them. Mrs. Perez also feels a great deal of anxiety from the pressure of state assessments in a content area that had been a struggle for her as a learner. It is not surprising that for guidance they both cling to the district-adopted mathematics textbook and its supporting resources. The "toolbox" of resources Mr. Williams has collected and developed over the years for teaching reading, combined with Mrs. Perez's own reading strategies treasure trove, could serve as an accredited series independent of district resources. However, in mathematics, their concern about the content limits them to the core textbook and two resources suggested for struggling learners. Having nearly completed a second year together, they are increasingly concerned about what they are not doing, what the textbook does not provide, and their need for additional supports and solutions to help them truly meet the needs of their 22 students, especially those with disabilities.

Figures (1)

2900 Crystal Drive, Suite 1000, Arlington, VA 22202-3557 Phone: 888-232-7733 TTY: 866-915-5000 Privacy Policy Terms of Services Address correspondence concerning this article to David H. Allsopp, University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Ave, EDU 105, Tampa, FL 33620 (e-mail: dallsopp@usf.edu).

Loading Preview

Sorry, preview is currently unavailable. You can download the paper by clicking the button above.