Adapting Existing Materials
The adaptation of existing materials is called for when the materials are judged to be appropriate, but need some simple modifications to make them more accessible. Existing materials are physically altered to make them more sensitive to learning needs.
You can rewrite, reorganize, add to, or recast the information so that the student can access regular curriculum material independently. For example, you can prepare an audiotape and study guide for the student to use while other students read the text material. To see the complete article on each adaptation to existing materials, click on the title link below.
This two-part adaptation was developed to be useful across subject-matter areas. It can help you plan and present assignments that all students in the class can complete, as well as help students record and complete the assignments.
Due to poor reading and study skills, many students who have learning disabilities (or who are otherwise low-achieving academically) are unable to read their assigned textbooks with the proficiency required to abstract and assimilate new information. This article describes how to apply the diagnostic-prescriptive approach to individualizing textbook instruction.
This adaptation was created to overcome the shortcomings of traditional audiotaping practices. It is useful across subject-matter areas.
Provided in partnership with The Council for Exceptional Children.
- Step 6: Determine Adaptations That Will Allow the Student to Meet the Demand
- Adaptations and Modifications for Students with Special Needs
- Inclusion Resources
- Adapting Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science for the Inclusive Classroom
- Popular Learning & Developmental Disablities Resources
- More Resources
Asian-Pacific-American Heritage Month
May is Asian-Pacific-American Heritage Month! Don't overlook this opportunity to study and enjoy activities about the history and culture of Asian-Pacific American communities.
The recent rash of tornadoes in Oklahoma, which killed at least two dozen people, may have your students wondering why such natural disasters occur, how they may be affected by them, and what they can do to help. Use these resources to teach the geography of Oklahoma and the Southwestern United States, to explain tornadoes, and to discuss the resulting crises with your class.
Top 10 Galleries
Explore our most popular Top 10 galleries, from Top 10 Behavior Management Tips for the Classroom and Top 10 Classroom Organization Tips from Veteran Teachers to Top 10 Free (& Cheap) Rewards for Students and Top 10 Things Every Teacher Needs in the Classroom. We'll help you get organized and prepared for every classroom situation, holiday, and more! Check out all of our galleries today.
May Calendar of Events
May is full of holidays and events that you can incorporate into your standard curriculum. Our Educators' Calendar outlines activities for each event, including: Backyard Games Week (5/23-29) and Memorial Day (5/27). Plus, celebrate Asian-Pacific-American Heritage Month, Clean Air Month, and Physical Fitness & Sports Month all May long!
Common Core Lessons & Resources
Is your school district adopting the Common Core? Work these new standards into your curriculum with our reading, writing, speaking, social studies, and math lessons and activities. Each piece of content incorporates the Common Core State Standards into the activity or lesson.

