The IEP from A to Z

A truly comprehensive, teacher- and parent-friendly guide to creating clear and effective IEPs With the skyrocketing diagnoses of ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and related conditions in U.S. schools, there is a growing need for information on creating effective IEPs for exceptional students. The IEP From A to Z is a step-by-step guide showing teachers and parents how to get the right education plan in place for students with ADHD, Autism/Asperger's, Emotional/Behavioral Disturbance, and related conditions. Provides easy-to-understand explanations of the special education process along with a wealth of sample effective IEPs Explains what is most important for educators and parents to keep in mind during IEP development Provides content area-specific sample goal and objective templates, general teaching tips for maintaining the IEP, and useful resources From nationally recognized experts in the special education field, this book guides readers through the process of writing thoughtful, intelligent Individualized Education Plans that deliver high-quality, need-based educational programming to exceptional students.

Acknowledgments ix The Authors xi Authors’ Note xiii Foreword xv Introduction 1 Part One: Essential Elements of the Iep 1 Past Perspectives and Present Practices 7 2 The ‘‘Gold Standard’’ for Setting Goals and Measuring Progress 15 3 Setups for Successful Performance 23 4 Methodology: No Longer a Sacred Cow 31 5 Scaffolding Student Success 41 6 The Case for Generalization 53 7 Getting to the Heart of the Matter: How to Write Meaningful Goals and Objectives 59 8 Measuring Student Performance: More than a Simple ‘‘Numbers Game’’ 69 9 In the Shadow of No Child Left Behind 77 Part Two: Moving From Theory to Practice 10 Tools for Assessment and Decision Making 87 11 Comprehension: The Power That Fuels Expression 97 12 The Many Different Faces of Expression 111 13 All Things Social 131 14 Executive Function: The Pinnacle of Cognitive Development 149 15 Critical Thinking: An Essential Life Skill 165 Epilogue 179 Appendix A: Tips for Teaching Skill Development and Generalization 183 Appendix B: Helpful Teaching Resources 187 References 193 Index 197