EXCEPTIONALITY
Key Terms
Disability: the consequence of an impairment that may be physical, cognitive, mental, sensory, emotional, developmental, or some combination Exceptional children: children with learning and/or behavior problems, children with physical disabilities and children who are intellectually gifted Gifted and talented: refers to students with very high intelligence or superior gifts and talents Normalization: making available to all persons with disabilities patterns of life that are as close as possible to the ways of life in society Full inclusion: serving students with disabilities and other special needs entirely within the general classroom |
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CLASSROOM ACTIVITY
Do you know someone with a disability? Share your story with the class and include how they learned to cope with their disability.
(Note: Encourage students to talk about the people with disabilities in their families and communities. You may want to begin by telling a story of your own to help set the tone for the sharing session.)
Source: http://www.tolerance.org/supplement/understanding-disabilities-elementary-grades
STRATEGIES FOR PARENTS AND TEACHERS:
1. Make sure that all students are included in classroom activities
2. Avoid patterns of overprotective parenting to help your child be more independent
3. Teach students that fair treatment does not always mean equal treatment
This picture book explores questions and concerns about physical disabilities in a simple and reassuring way. Younger children can find out about individual disabilities, special equipment that is available to help the disabled, and how people of all ages can deal with disabilities and live happy and full lives. The book also includes a page of advice to parents and teachers.
Thomas, Pat. Don't Call Me Special. New York: Barron's, 2002. Print. |
This touching tale is about Gerald the giraffe, who wants nothing more than to dance. With crooked knees and thin legs, it's harder for a giraffe than you would think. Gerald is finally able to dance to his own tune when he gets some encouraging words from an unlikely friend. This tale is gentle inspiration for every child with dreams of greatness.
Andreae, Giles. Giraffes Can't Dance. New York: Orchard Books, 2001. Print. |
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE, CONTACT THE FOLLOWING:
Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission
101 S. 2nd Street, Suite 300 Harrisburg, PA 17101 Tel: (717) 787-4410 http://www.phrc.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/phrc_home/18970 |
United Disabilities Services
P.O. Box 10485 1901 Olde Homestead Lane Lancaster, PA 17605 Tel: (888) 837-4235 http://www.udservices.org/ |
Abilities In Motion
210 North 5th Street Reading, PA 19601 Tel: (610) 376-0010 http://www.abilitiesinmotion.org/ |