THREE ABILITIES THAT ACADEMIC ENVIRONMENTS FREQUENTLY REQUIRE

I. ATTENTION

• Focus attention
• Control actions and responses

• Decode
• Comprehend language

• Visually discriminate, recognize, and organize
• Coordinate motor movements
• Form concepts, solve problems, generate strategies, test hypotheses
• Exhibit social competence

LESSONS FOR OUR CLASSROOMS

1. To the extent that we are able to figure out how brains are different, we are better able to support and enhance children's learning. Teachers are detectives.

2. Attempt to provide support/adaptations for those that cannot meet the demands of the classroom. As yourself: is this "demand" serving an IMPORTANT academic/social function that needs to be met and/or could not be met in some other way?

3. Attempt to provide an environment that nurtures all types of brains. Vary the structure of the learning environment and the types of skills that may be needed. Consider alternative paths to the same end. Consider the fact that the process maybe more important than thne product.

4. Think of diversity as a blessing. You and your classroom may be energized by adpating to different learning abilities. New behaviors, creative and interesting ideas may emerge in a different environment. Even non-disabled students may do things that you would not otherwise see.

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