Embracing Disabilities in the Classroom

Foster positive experiences by differentiating not only instruction but attitudes too!This practical resource illustrates how educators can effectively promote sensitive, inclusive practices that maximize success for students with disabilities. Karten demonstrates the impact of literature, self-advocacy, role playing, and behavioral, academic, and social interventions on students' growth. The numerous tables, rubrics, instructional guidelines, charts, and content-rich interdisciplinary lessons help readers: Determine effective strategies for differentiating instruction for specific disabilitiesModify lessons and curriculum appropriately in the content areasEncourage students to become active participants in learningIncrease disability awareness and foster inclusive mind-sets in students, colleagues, and families

Illustrates how teachers and community members can foster positive inclusive experiences by differentiating not only instruction, but attitudes too. This book demonstrates the impact of literature, self-advocacy, role playing, and strategic interventions that make the most of learners' potential by acknowledging and advocating their assets.

PrefaceAcknowledgmentsAbout the AuthorPart I. Introducing Disabilities1. Historical Background of Disabilities Chapter Highlights Classroom Connections Ways to Differentiate Attitudes Then to Now Out and About Beyond Terminology Legislation Says...and the Classroom Does2. How Others Interact and Acknowledge Disabilities and Differences Chapter Highlights Classroom Connections Ways to Differentiate Attitudes Dislabeling ActivitiesPart II. Classroom Implications3. Entering the Inclusion Classroom Chapter Highlights Classroom Connections Ways to Differentiate Attitudes Assessing, Modifying, & Adapting the Curriculum Capitalize on Strengths: What to Minimize & Maximize4. Mastering the Curriculum Chapter Highlights Classroom Connections Ways to Differentiate Attitudes Presenting Curriculum5. Content-Related Strategies and Lessons Chapter Highlights Classroom Connections Ways to Differentiate Attitudes Their Strategies, Not Ours! Put Me in Coach! It's All in the Presentation! Reading Curriculum Concerns Appropriate Reading & Language Arts Accommodations, Adaptations, and Strategies for Lessons Writing Curriculum Concerns: Write On! Mathematics Curriculum Concerns: Math Matters, Too! Other Curriculum Lessons6. Instructional Differentiation and Sensitivities That Respond to Students' Behavioral, Social, Emotional, and Perceptual Needs Chapter Highlights Classroom Connections Ways to Differentiate AttitudesPart III. Schools, Families, and the Future7. Increasing Disability Awareness and Better Attitudes for Families and All Communities Chapter Highlights Classroom Connections Ways to Differentiate Attitudes8. Future Horizons for Disabilities Chapter Highlights Classroom Connections Ways to Differentiate Attitudes Commitments to Students' AchievementsAppendix A: Differentiating and Assessing Attitudes With Ability Awareness RubricsAppendix B: Enabling vs. Challenging Your StudentsAppendix C: Student Data DocumentationAppendix D: Increasing Communications and CollaborationReferencesIndex