Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Special Education

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Special Education 1. Accommodation vs. Modification Accommodation and modification are two terms often used in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). While both aim to support students, they differ in their approach. An accommodation is a change in how a student learns, such as extra time or a quiet environment. On the other hand, a modification involves altering the curriculum itself, like simplifying content or adjusting grading criteria. 2. Inclusion vs. Mainstreaming Inclusion and mainstreaming are strategies to ensure students with disabilities receive education alongside their peers. Inclusion emphasizes the importance of belonging, where students are fully integrated into regular classrooms. Mainstreaming, on the other hand, involves placing students with disabilities in regular classrooms for specific subjects or activities while providing additional support as needed. 3. IEP vs. 504 Plan Both an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and a 504 Plan are designed to support students with disabilities. However, they differ in their scope. An IEP is a comprehensive plan that includes specific academic goals, accommodations, and services. A 504 Plan, on the other hand, focuses on accommodations and support that enable a student to access the general curriculum. 4. Speech Disorder vs. Language Disorder