A Guide to an Education Plan for Adjusting Curriculum for Special Needs Students

Under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), schools are required to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that students with special needs are able to participate in ‘rigorous, meaningful and dignified learning.’ This applies to physical, cognitive and learning disabilities.

An effective education plan for adjusting curriculum for special needs students takes these requirements seriously and ensures they are implemented consistently. The obligation of educators to make reasonable adjustments applies across the entire education system—from preschool to university. These adjustments must balance the needs of students with those of educators and peers.

The types of special needs adjustments required are usually determined by the school Learning and Support Team in consultation with teachers, parents and professionals. A well-rounded education plan for adjusting curriculum for special needs students will involve all stakeholders in the planning process.

Parents play a vital role in shaping these plans because of their deep knowledge of their child’s unique needs and abilities. For this reason, it’s essential that parents understand the different types of classroom and environmental adjustments available, so their child receives the best possible education.

Types of Classroom Adjustments

Instructional Adjustments

Teachers have a great deal of flexibility in deciding what methods to use to deliver lessons. There are many options for modifying lessons to meet the needs of all students.

Instructional adjustments include:

Course materials in braille
Worksheets and other learning materials in enlarged text or on coloured paper
Captioned audio-visual materials
Use of an FM microphone
Specialised services, such as a notetaker
Providing lesson materials in advance
Recorded lessons for students to watch or listen to at home
Illustrated learning materials
Simplified texts
Additional modelling and guided practice

Environmental Adjustments in the Learning Space

Environmental adjustments refer to physical changes made to the school setting to enhance access for students with special needs. A comprehensive education plan for adjusting curriculum for special needs students includes modifications not only to classrooms but also to shared spaces like libraries and sports facilities.

Environmental adjustments include:

Ramps, railings and lifts to assist with mobility
Specialised lighting
Lever taps in bathrooms and other wet areas
Modified computer equipment
Augmented communication systems
Relocating classes to more accessible spaces
Rearrangement of classroom furniture to provide easy access
Seating arrangements that help with mobility and concentration

Assessment Adjustments

Adjustments to assessment tasks are key to an inclusive education plan for adjusting curriculum for special needs students. These modifications aim to offer fair opportunities for all learners without lowering academic standards.

Assessment task adjustments include:

Providing a range of options for students to choose from, such as a speech, video presentation or practical demonstration
Allowing oral instead of written answers in an exam
Use of speech recognition software, smart pens and other assistive technology for assessments and exams
Extended deadlines
Additional reading time
Alternative step-by-step instructions for assessments and practical tasks
Provision of a reader and/or writer in exams
Recorded oral feedback rather than written feedback

How a Tutor Can Support an Education Plan for Adjusting Curriculum for Special Needs Students

A study by the Center of Parent Information and Resources found that one-on-one tutoring has profound benefits for students with special learning needs. A tutor provides tools and personalised attention to help exceptional students succeed.

At Tutor Doctor we ensure that our customised learning plans are aligned with classroom support programmes to give students the best outcomes. Tutors are handpicked to meet the specific needs of each student.

For those seeking personalised academic assistance, we also offer Tutoring services to help adults continue their educational journey.