Ready-made lessons with accommodations-visit (Dieker &Berg,2001 Pk-16 Access to Science Web site. The site currently contains 8 weeks lessons at the 6th grade, 7th grade (Integrated Sciences) and 10th grade (biology) levels based upon Milwaukee Public Schools and State of Wisconsin Standards. Within each lesson is built in accommodations fro behavior, academics and assistive technology for students with disabilities.We will be adding to this site by the end of 2003 lessons at the 8th grade and 11th grade (Chemistry) www.uwm.edu/~caberg/access

Assure Student Access-Ask special educator or physical therapist to review the accessibility of your lab space as well as materials.

Utilize Support Staff and Peer Tutors-In planning each unit consider consulting a special educator for assistance (where available) or ideas to ensue student success. Remember the power of peers especially in a more constructive approach to teaching. Current research suggest that students with cognitive delays may need some direct instruction in a constructivist type of learning situation.

Alternative lesson or Outcomes- Allow students to demonstrate understanding of a science concept but at a different level or in a different format.

Directions- Since so much of the activities in science include multiple steps, consider using the following ideas:

1. 1. Provide some students with one step at a time.
2. 2. After giving directions, ask another student to repeat in their own words what they are to do before starting an activity.
3. 3. Alternate in your demonstrating what is to occur between talking and manipulating.

Assigning Homework- Ask students to review the homework and mark what they believe is doable and 'not doable". Then talk with the student about what they feel they cannot accomplish and why. Then modify the assignment as you both see fit for success to occur. Remember for some students with a disability a 30- minute assignment can be a 2-3 hour process for them and their parents.

Sharing findings with other students- Remember to prepare a group for the accommodations needed for a student who is hearing impaired or vision impaired for group participation. For students with behavioral issues give them a role that is not overwhelming and likely to ensure success with their peers.

Barrier Free- This web site is a resource to help students with disabilities gain access to math and science education: http:barrier-free.arch.gatech.edu/

Connecting Science Concepts to what Students Already Know_ See Examples