Strategies, such as cooperative learning, explicit instruction and blended learning are effective for students with disabilities and are also best practices for all students. But even when using these strategies, a teacher should consider specially designed instruction (SDI).

What is SDI?

Specially designed instruction addresses the disability area specifically through the IEP with alignment of the present level of performance and the individualized goals designed for the student. SDI is the explicit, systematic, carefully planned and monitored set of instructional supports provided to a student based on his/her learning needs in their IEP to remove barriers that result from the student's disability.

Therefore, SDI addresses content, methodology and/or the delivery of instruction to best meet the needs of students with disabilities. Ultimately, SDI is understanding student goals, the intent of the lesson and ensuring students receive targeted instruction which aligns to student need as articulated in the IEP.

How is SDI different from accommodations and modifications?


What does SDI look in a classroom?

In math, SDI could be applying the concrete-representational-abstract to support a student's conceptual understanding of adding fractions. In writing, teachers could use the compare-diagnose-operate strategy to assist students in self-monitoring, editing and organizing their writing pieces. In reading, using various peer-assisted learning metacognitive structures and reading interventions can assist in helping students with processing and reading deficits.

SDI integrated within core instruction, supplemental intervention and intensive intervention may look different for each student with a disability. SDI is a service, not a place, and is not defined by where it occurs. It must be provided in the student's least restrictive environment.

If teachers use specially designed instruction in inclusive classrooms, students with disabilities will be provided instructional opportunities that meet their unique academic and behavioral needs and ultimately lead to success.