Intellectual disability is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, with an onset during the developmental period, typically before age 18.

 

Key features of intellectual disability include:

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• Limitations in cognitive abilities such as learning, problem-solving, and judgment.

• Deficits in adaptive functioning skills needed for daily life, including communication, social participation, and independent living.

• IQ scores typically around 70 or below, although clinical judgment is needed in interpretation.

• Onset during the developmental period, before age 18.

 

Intellectual disability affects about 1 -3% of the population, with the majority (around 85%) having a mild form. It can be caused by genetic conditions, problems during pregnancy, injuries, or other factors that impact brain development.

 

While intellectual disability is a lifelong condition, with appropriate support and accommodations, individuals with intellectual disability can learn and develop new skills, participate in their communities, and lead fulfilling lives. The key is to focus on their strengths, provide individualised support, and create inclusive environments that enable them to thrive.

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Here are some key evidence-based practices to support students with intellectual disabilities in learning numeracy and literacy:

 

Multi-Sensory Instruction

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• Use a variety of sensory modalities (visual, auditory, tactile) to teach numeracy and literacy concepts. For example, use manipulatives, visuals, and verbal cues simultaneously to reinforce learning.

 

Structured and Explicit Teaching

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• Break down numeracy and literacy tasks into small, manageable steps and provide clear, step-by-step instructions. Explicitly teach skills and concepts, providing ample opportunities for practice and reinforcement.

 

Visual Supports

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• Use visual aids such as charts, diagrams, graphic organizers, and visual schedules to support comprehension and organization of information. Visual supports can help students with intellectual disabilities better understand and remember numeracy and literacy concepts.

 

Differentiated Instruction

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• Differentiate instruction to meet the individual needs and learning styles of students. Provide varied levels of support and scaffolding based on students' abilities, interests, and readiness levels.

 

Repetition and Reinforcement

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• Offer frequent opportunities for repetition and reinforcement of numeracy and literacy skills. Review previously taught concepts regularly to promote retention and mastery.

 

Peer-Mediated Instruction

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• Encourage peer interaction and collaboration by pairing students with intellectual disabilities with peers who can provide support, modeling, and encouragement during numeracy and literacy activities.

 

Use of Technology

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• Integrate educational technology tools and software that are specifically designed to support students with intellectual disabilities in numeracy and literacy learning. These may include interactive games, digital manipulatives, and text-to-speech software.

 

Functional and Contextualized Learning

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• Embed numeracy and literacy instruction within meaningful, real-life contexts and activities. Teach skills that are relevant to students' everyday lives and future goals to increase motivation and engagement.

 

Progress Monitoring and Assessment

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• Use ongoing assessment to monitor students' progress in numeracy and literacy skills. Adjust instruction based on students' individual needs and progress, and celebrate their achievements to foster a positive learning environment.

 

Collaboration and Family Involvement

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• Collaborate with families, caregivers, and other professionals to support students' numeracy and literacy development both at school and at home. Involve families in goal-setting, reinforcement of skills, and extension of learning beyond the classroom.

 

The key is using a multimodal approach that incorporates explicit instruction, multisensory activities, ample practice opportunities, accommodations, and collaboration with families and specialists. By implementing these evidence-based practices tailored to each student's needs, educators can effectively support the development of numeracy and literacy skills for students with intellectual disabilities.