Michael is a 2nd grade student who has attended his local elementary school since kindergarten. Michael has developed significant difficulties in his current 2nd grade reading curriculum. These difficulties include an inability to answer workbook and teacher comprehension questions regarding the stories within his 2nd grade basal reader series. Michael’s teacher notes that he answers comprehension questions with just 20% accuracy compared to the 2nd grade average of 80% accuracy with comprehension questions. Michael’s teacher modifies some of his comprehension classroom and homework assignments in order to help address his comprehension concerns in reading. In March of the school year, Michael’s teacher refers him to the special education team for possible special education evaluation consideration.
1) Is Michael’s teacher’s decision to refer him for special education services warranted? Why? Why not?
2) Discuss the efficacy of Michael’s teacher’s intervention (i.e., modified classroom and homework comprehension assignments). Was this intervention appropriate and
sufficient? Why? Why not?
3) Should Michael be considered for special education services? Why? Why not?
