Student Ability Profile: Tyler

Student Abilities Profile 

Narrative:

Tyler is a 17-year-old senior enrolled in special education. He is diagnosed as having Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) and has difficulty with written communication. He is friendly and works well with others. He is in constant motion and cannot sit still.

Task/Assignment:

Successfully complete mathematics class.

Equipment: (lab equipment, furniture, protective clothing, chemicals, etc.)

Paper, pencil, chalk, and chalkboard are the primary tools used in the classroom.

Environment: (facility, fumes, odors, dust, temperature, noise, lighting, etc.)

Typical mathematics class.

Physical Challenges

None.

Potential Strategies / Accommodations

None.

Resources

Not applicable.

Sensory Challenges

None.

Potential Strategies / Accommodations

None.

Resources

Not applicable.

Cognitive Challenges

  1. Has difficulty expressing himself in written form.
  2. Attention span—very active and moves all the time.

Potential Strategies / Accommodations

  • Choose groups carefully. A supportive peer group can be helpful. Check progress frequently.
  • Deliver tests orally; have Tyler dictate test answers.
  • Provide graph paper to help with writing.
  • Provide extra time for class tasks and assignments.
  • Reduce amount of written work, but check frequently for verbal understanding.
  • Provide peer tutoring.
  • Use alternate grade reporting.

Resources

  • Explore the AccessSTEM website to find suggestions for accommodations and learning strategies.

Physical, Sensory, and Cognitive Issues and Challenges 

Physical Issues

Think of the required physical aspects of the task. What will make the environment accessible, keep the student safe and allow them to be an active participant? What lab equipment must be manipulated?

Physical Challenges

  1. lift / carry
  2. stamina / endurance
  3. push / pull
  4. kneel / squat
  5. reach
  6. repetitive tasks
  7. fine motor: pinch / grasp
  8. fine motor: manipulate / maneuver
  9. gross motor
  10. sit in chair
  11. walk / stand
  12. balance
  13. bend / twist
  14. stoop / crouch
  15. other

Sensory Issues

Think of room temperature, noise, fumes, dust, odors, and allergies. Also consider the ability to speak and/or communicate, and the visual aspects of the task or assignment.

Sensory Issues

  1. vision
  2. hearing
  3. touch
  4. smell
  5. taste
  6. oral communication
  7. temperature
  8. fumes
  9. external stimuli
  10. lighting
  11. other

Cognitive Issues

Is the assignment done with a group, partner or individually? What memory and communication skills are needed? What is the level of complexity of the task.

Cognitive Challenges

  1. short term memory
  2. long term memory
  3. task complexity
  4. reading
  5. writing
  6. spelling
  7. string of numbers (math)
  8. paying attention
  9. visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner.
  10. self-esteem / advocacy issues
  11. behavior issues / acting out
  12. other