Exceptional Learners 6-9

Learning Disability

A disorder in one or more basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using language, spoken or written.

Specific Learning Disability (SLD)

A disorder affecting the ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or do mathematical calculations.

Dyslexia

A specific learning disability that affects reading and related language-based processing skills.

Dysgraphia

A learning disability that affects written expression.

Dyscalculia

A learning disability that affects mathematical reasoning and calculation.

Response to Intervention (RTI)

A multi-tiered approach to early identification and support of students with learning and behavior needs.

Discrepancy Model

A method comparing a student’s IQ and achievement scores to identify learning disabilities.

Cognitive Training

Instructional strategies designed to improve learning or memory by focusing on cognitive processes.

Metacognition

Awareness and control of one’s own thinking processes.

Direct Instruction

A structured, teacher-led method focused on systematic skill teaching.

Strategy Instruction

Teaching students specific cognitive strategies to improve learning and retention.

Learning Strategies

Techniques or methods that aid learning and problem solving.

Working Memory

The ability to temporarily hold and manipulate information for cognitive tasks.

Phonological Awareness

The ability to recognize and manipulate sounds in spoken words.

Explicit Teaching

Clearly defined, structured, and teacher-directed instruction.

Assistive Technology

Devices or software that aid learning for students with disabilities.

Comorbidity

The occurrence of two or more disabilities or disorders in the same individual.

Transition Planning

Preparing students with disabilities for life after high school.

Self-Advocacy

The ability of students to understand and express their own needs and rights.

ADHD

A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Inattention

Difficulty sustaining focus, following through on tasks, or organizing activities.

Hyperactivity

Excessive movement, fidgeting, or talking.

Impulsivity

Acting without thinking or consideration of consequences.

Combined Presentation

ADHD type that includes both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms.

Predominantly Inattentive Type

ADHD type where inattention is the primary symptom.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type

ADHD type where hyperactivity and impulsivity are primary symptoms.

Executive Function

The mental processes that enable planning, organizing, and regulating behavior.

Self-Regulation

The ability to manage one’s emotions, behavior, and attention.

Behavioral Interventions

Strategies designed to increase desirable behaviors and decrease undesirable ones.

Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA)

A process of identifying the reasons behind challenging behaviors.

Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)

A written plan developed to improve behavior based on FBA results.

Stimulant Medication

Drugs (like Ritalin or Adderall) used to improve attention and focus in individuals with ADHD.

Classroom Structure

Consistent routines and organization to support attention and behavior.

Token Economy

A reward system that reinforces positive behavior with tokens exchangeable for privileges.

Self-Monitoring

Teaching students to track and evaluate their own behavior.

Multimodal Treatment

A combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and educational interventions.

504 Plan

A plan that provides accommodations for students with disabilities not requiring special education.

Co-Teaching

Instruction provided jointly by general and special education teachers.

Emotional or Behavioral Disorder (EBD)

A condition showing difficulty in emotional regulation, behavior, or social interactions over a long period.

Internalizing Behaviors

Behaviors directed inward, such as anxiety, depression, or withdrawal.

Externalizing Behaviors

Behaviors directed outward, such as aggression, defiance, or hyperactivity.

Conduct Disorder

A pattern of behavior violating social norms or the rights of others.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

A pattern of angry, defiant, and argumentative behavior toward authority figures.

Anxiety Disorders

Conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness.

Depression

A mood disorder involving persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest.

Schizophrenia

A severe mental disorder involving distorted thinking, perception, and emotions.

Behavioral Intervention System

A tiered approach for preventing and addressing behavioral issues.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

A proactive framework for improving school climate and behavior.

Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA)

A process to identify causes and triggers of problem behavior.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A treatment that changes maladaptive thoughts to influence emotions and behaviors.

Social Skills Training

Programs teaching appropriate interaction and communication behaviors.

Wraparound Services

A team-based, holistic approach for supporting children with complex emotional needs.

Alternative Education Programs

Settings designed to serve students whose needs aren’t met in traditional schools.

Self-Management

Teaching students to monitor and control their own behavior.

Resilience

The ability to adapt and recover from stress or adversity.

School-Wide Behavior Support

Systems designed to promote positive behavior across all students.

Crisis Intervention

Immediate and short-term help for students in psychological distress.

Behavior Contract

An agreement between student and teacher outlining expectations and consequences.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A developmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors.

Social Communication Deficits

Difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication in social contexts.

Restricted or Repetitive Behaviors

Repetitive movements, interests, or routines typical in ASD.

High-Functioning Autism

Individuals on the autism spectrum with average or above-average intelligence.

Asperger Syndrome

A term previously used for individuals with social challenges but without language delay.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

A systematic behavioral approach to improve specific skills.

Discrete Trial Training (DTT)

A structured teaching method using repeated trials and reinforcement.

Social Stories

Short narratives teaching appropriate social behavior and responses.

Visual Supports

Tools (schedules, charts, pictures) that enhance understanding and communication.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Methods or devices that support or replace verbal speech.

Speech Disorder

Difficulty producing speech sounds correctly or fluently.

Language Disorder

Impairment in understanding or using spoken, written, or other language forms.

Receptive Language Disorder

Difficulty understanding what others say.

Expressive Language Disorder

Difficulty expressing thoughts, needs, or ideas.

Pragmatic Language Disorder

Difficulty using language appropriately in social situations.

Echolalia

Repetition of words or phrases spoken by others, common in ASD.

Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

A professional who diagnoses and treats communication disorders.

Joint Attention

The ability to share focus on an object or event with another person.

Early Intervention

Services provided to very young children with developmental delays.

Neurodiversity Perspective

Viewing neurological differences as natural variations rather than deficits.