Universal Design for Learning

The middle level years are an extraordinary period of our human development. The only other time we grow as much physically, emotionally, and intellectually is form ages zero to two. But early adolescence is much more than just tripping over large feet and calling friends on the phone to discuss who likes whom. The ways we deal with conflict, relationships, and personal development as adults have direct connections to specific experiences we had between the ages of ten and fourteen. We can create a very positive future then, when we provide careful and compassionate experiences for today’s young adolescents.

It is hard to find a proposal for improving American education that does not include plans for the widespread use of computers. Yet concerns abound that the benefits will lag behind until the teachers who guide the students have a better understanding of their use. Anne Meyer and David Rose provide a thoughtful book that will help educate teachers in the theories and uses of computers for the teaching of reading. It presents rich knowledge both about computers and about the process of learning to read, relating computers to theories of the brain and to the teaching of reading skills and strategies. Also covered is the variety of computer software available for teaching reading at various levels for students who make normal progress as well as for those who experience problems. This presentation offers an exciting view of the future use of computers in reading instruction.

This book is intended to serve as a freestanding reference for teachers whose classes include students with academic or behavioral difficulties. The recommended best practices were originally developed for students with disabilities but have been found to be effective with all students. Each chapter provides principles, suggestions and specific tools (such as sample check lists, rubrics, forms, word lists, observation guides, planning guides, and lesson plans).

This book features 169 reproducible activities which provide opportunities for active learning and student practice in the study skills and strategies most important for students with special needs. Teaching students with special needs to use study skills and strategies effectively is an important step in transforming these students into independent learners. In addition to the reproducible activities themselves, each chapter in this book contains suggestions for using the activities, mastery assessment, and an answer key.

Memory and learning are so intricately liked that they continuously influence each other. Discover how brain functioning affects learning and memory to help your students with special needs.

With Faking It, Christopher Lee and Rosemary Jackson offered a moving account of Lee’s struggle and ultimate triumph over dyslexia. Now, Lee combines his special insight with Jackson’s expertise as a special education trainer to offer specific help to teachers and parents of other misunderstood learners.