Evidence-based Practices Manual 0

Evidenced-Based Practices

Manual

MOSAIC
Evidence-based Practices Manual 1

Table of Contents

Topic # Page
1 Universal Design for Learning…………………………………. 3
2 Least Restrictive Environment………………………………….. 5
3 Inclusion………………………………………………………… 7
4 Positive Behavior Support………………………………………. 9
5 Response to Intervention………………………………………… 10
6 Parent Participation Involvement……………………………….. 11
7 Curriculum-Based Measurement………………………………... 13
8 Eligibility Assessment…………………………………………... 15
9 Accommodations Assessment…………………………………. 17
10 Functional Behavior Assessment……………………………… 18
11 Functional Analysis……………………………………………. 19
12 Curriculum-Based Assessment…………………………………. 21
13 Data-Based Decision Making…………………………………. 23
14 Progress Monitoring……………………………………………. 24
15 Precision Teaching………………………………………………. 25
16 Task Analysis…………………………………………………… 26
17 Self-Determination…………………………………………… 27
18 Community Based Instruction….……………………………… 28
19 Assistive Technology…………………………………………… 29
20 Instructional Technology………………………………………... 30
21 Peer-Assisted Learning Strategies……………………………… 32
22 Class-wide Peer Tutoring……………………………………….. 34
23 Direct Instruction……………………………………………….. 36
24 Use of Praise…………………………………………………… 38
25 High-P Sequence………………………………………………… 39
26 Opportunities to Respond………………………………………. 41
27 Self-Management………………………………………………. 42
28 Choice Making………………………………………………… 44
29 Precorrection…………………………………………………… 45
30 Graphic Organizers……………………………………………… 46
31 Mnemonics………………………………………………………. 47
32 Cognitive Strategy Instruction…………………………………... 48
33 Scaffolding/Differentiated Instruction………………………….. 50
34 Accommodation (Ind./group) ………………………………….. 51
35 Direct/Explicit Instruction……………………………………… 53
36 Prompting………………………………………………………. 55
37 Self-Regulated Strategy Development………………………….. 57
38 Cover, Copy, Compare…………………………………………. 58
Evidence-based Practices Manual 2

39 Content Enhancement Routine Principals……………………… 60

40 Social Skills Instruction……………………………………….. 62
41 Token Economies…………………………………………….. 63
42 Good Behavior Game…………………………………………. 64
43 Co-Teaching…………………………………………………… 65
44 Collaborative Strategic Reading………………………………… 66
45 Repeating Reading…………………………………………….. 67
46 Read Naturally…………………………………………………. 68
47 Solve It! Math…………………………………………………. 69
48 Reading Mastery………………………………………………… 71
49 Errorless Training……………………………………………… 72
50 Time Delay………………………………………………………. 73
51 Prompting Systems……………………………………………… 74
Additional EBPs………………………………………………… 75
Evidence-based Practices Manual 3

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

What is it?

Universal Design for Learning or UDL is a framework and guidelines for

education that designs teaching to address the learning needs of a broad possible range of
students in a flexible manner. UDL is organized around three principles.

I. To support recognition learning, provide multiple means of representation (ways

to present for learning).
II. To support strategic learning, provide multiple means of action and expression
(how to express learning)
III. To support affective learning, provide multiple means of engagement (why of
learning, motivation).

Based on these three principles, nine evidence-based guidelines are provided to

teachers to encourage them to design instruction and curriculum that is inclusive and
effective for all students.

1. Provide options for perception.

2. Provide options for language and symbols
3. Provide options for comprehension
4. Provide options for physical action
5. Provide options for expressive skills and fluency
6. Provide options for executive functions
7. Provide options for recruiting interest
8. Provide options for sustaining effort and persistence
9. Provide options for self-regulation (CAST, 2008)

UDL can be actualized within lessons, materials, instructional units or curriculum to

improve student participation and achievement by removing potential barriers.

There is evidence supporting the effectiveness of UDL applications in various

subject areas and across all grade spans. It has been shown that the core practices,
instructional elements and specific application of UDL have merit. At this point there is
limited research on large-scale adoption at the school or district level. (Rose& Gravel,
2010)

Why is it important?

UDL is based on research into the design of conducive learning environments and
the nature of learning differences. As Secondary Educators MOSAIC graduates will be
responsible for developing, delivering, and advocating for instruction that is responsive to
the needs of a wide array of students. UDL provides a systematic framework for this
essential practice.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 4

References

Rose, D.H., & Gravel, J.W.(2010). Universal Design for learning. In P. Peterson, E.
Baker & B.McGraw (eds.), International encylopedia of education (pp.119-124). Oxford:
Elsevier.

CAST (2008). Universal Design for Learning Guidelines Version 1.0. Wakefield, MA:
Author.

Web Links

CAST, Universal Design for Learning

http://cast.org

NIMAS Development and Technical Assistance Centers

http://nimas.cast.org

National Center on Universal Design for Learning

http://www.udlcenter.org
Evidence-based Practices Manual 5

Least Restrictive Environment

What is it?

Education provided in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) means that

students with disabilities are educated with their peers without disabilities to the
maximum extent appropriate. The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) mandated
that:

To the maximum extent appropriate, children with disabilities, including children

in public or private institutions or other care facilities, are educated with children
who are not disabled, and that special classes, separate schooling, or other
removal children with disabilities from the regular [general] education
environment occurs only when the nature or severity of the disability is such that
education in regular classes with the use of supplementary aids and services
cannot be achieved satisfactorily. (IDEA, 2004, PL 108-446, Sec. 614[d])

Federal regulations require school districts to have a continuum of educational

placements available to meet the individual needs of students. The continuum progresses
from the most restrictive educational delivery system being homebound or hospital
instructional programs to the least restrictive environment of a general education
classroom with no specialized assistance. In between these two extremes on the LRE
continuum are residential facilities, separate school facilities, separate classes and part-
time resource room options.
(Hardman, Egan, & Drew 2011)

Why is it important?

The issue of LRE is increasingly important as the special education population

grows. The number of school-age children with disabilities is increasing at a faster rate
than general school enrollment. A large number of these students have high-incidence
disabilities and will be educated in general education settings along with their non-
disabled peers.

Although most of the Special Education community agrees with the principles of
LRE there is discussion about how to best implement it in practice. Early advocates
focused on the setting of the LRE to address issues of inequity and segregation.
(Turnbull, 1994) Others have extended the conversation to focus on the context of
supports and opportunities for meaningful participation beyond the “placement” decision.
(Rueda, Gallego, & Moll, 2000).

In 2005 a settlement was reached between parties representing Lydia Gaskin and
the Pennsylvania Department of Education in 2005. The settlement requires monitoring
of Pennsylvania school districts regarding their implementation of LRE. PDE agreed to
conduct more onsite training for schools and adapt the IEP policies and documentation to
Evidence-based Practices Manual 6

ensure schools consider a wide range of supplementary services and supports to promote
access to and success in general education classrooms.

References

Hardman, M.L., Drew, C.J., Egan, M.W. & Wolf, B. (2011) Human Exceptionality,
Society, School and Family (10th Edition), Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Rueda, R., Gallego, M.A., & Moll, L.C. (2000) The least restrictive environment: A place
or a context? Remedial and Special Education, 21(2).

Turnbull, H.R. (1994) Free appropriate education: The law and children with disabilities.
Denver, CO: Love.

Yell, M.L. (1995) Least restrictive environment, inclusion, and students with disabilities: analysis and
commentary, Journal of Special Education, 28(4).

Web Links

U.S. Department of Education

http://idea.ed.gov/explore/view/p/,root,statute,I,B,612,a,5,
Evidence-based Practices Manual 7

Inclusion

What is it?

Inclusive education means students with disabilities receive the services and
supports appropriate for their individual needs within the general education setting.
Inclusion can be characterized by the extent to which services are provided for the
student within the general education classroom. Full Inclusion implies that all instruction
and support services are provided in the general education classroom. Partial inclusion
means that students with disabilities receive some of their educational services and
instruction in a general education class but also receive a portion of these services in
another instructional setting when appropriate.

Research indicates that Inclusive Schools are most effective when careful
attention is paid the following characteristics:
 Diversity, acceptance and belonging are promoted.
 Formal and informal support networks are provided.
 Placement is based on age appropriate neighborhood schools.
 Meaningful participation with the general education curriculum.
 Instructional support is provided to all students through multidisciplinary
collaboration. (Hardman, Egan, & Drew 2011)

Why is it important?

Inclusive education grew out of the Regular Education Initiative inspired by

parent and professional concerns that the distinction between general education and
special education promoted isolation and created an ineffective and discriminatory
system. Inclusive education was designed to promote improved social interaction and
access to more rigorous academic experiences for students with disabilities. These
conditions are necessary to support the integration of students with disabilities in society.
Inclusive school experiences can promote more successful transition to adult life.
Researchers have effectively argued that caution needs to be applied in making inclusive
education decisions to ensure that students with disabilities continue to receive the
instruction models and services that have been proven to be effective in the past
(Zigmond, Kloo, & Volonino, 2009).

References

Hardman, M.L., Drew, C.J., Egan, M.W. & Wolf, B. (2011) Human Exceptionality,
Society, School and Family (10th Edition), Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Zigmond, N., Kloo, A. and Volonino, V. (2009) What, where, and how? Special education in the
climate of full inclusion, Exceptionality, 17(4): 189–204.

Web Links
Evidence-based Practices Manual 8

Inclusive Schools Network

http://inclusiveschools.org/
Evidence-based Practices Manual 9

Positive Behavior Support

What is it?

Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is an application of applied behavior principles.

It is designed to decrease problem behavior and increase appropriate behavior by
manipulating environmental events such as antecedents and consequences. PBS has
combined assessment and instructional strategies to prevent the occurrence of problem
behavior. The strategies such as shaping, fading, and chaining are included in student’s
behavior plan. Prior to determining intervention strategies, students who need PBS plan
are identified through functional behavior assessment procedures. Some methods of
measurement encompass teacher and parent self-reports (using behavioral checklist),
observation, and functional analysis. Based on the function of the behavior, positive
behavior strategies that will help student decrease inappropriate behaviors can be
identified (Alberto & Troutman, 2009).

Why is it important?

The occurrence of problem behavior prevents students from learning and results in
limited instructional time for students who engage in problem behavior. Moreover,
environment will not be safe for other students who receive education. To ensure safety
for all students, PBS applies principles of behavior to improve the lives of individual
students. Because PBS identifies why student engages in problem behavior and under
what conditions problem behavior is occurred it can alter conditions to improve students’
appropriate behavior and reduce problem behavior (Alberto & Troutman, 2009).

References

Alberto, P.A. & Troutman, A.C. (2009). Providing for Generalization of Behavior
Change. In Applied Behavior Analysis for Teachers (pp. 341-365). Upper Saddle River:
New Jersey.

Web Links

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports

www.pbis.org
Evidence-based Practices Manual 10

Response to Intervention (RTI)

What is it?

Response to Intervention or RTI is a framework in which tiers or layers of

increasingly intensive instruction are provided to students who fail to demonstrate
adequate levels of academic gain. In the most recent reauthorization of IDEA, this
process may be used to identify students with specific learning disabilities (SLD) and
entitle them to special education services. The model was initially conceptualized for
elementary students with reading difficulties. In this model, young students would
receive an evidence-based core reading program (i.e., Tier 1). Students who failed to
benefit from this instruction (e.g., failed to achieve an appropriate benchmark on a
progress monitoring measure) would be provided with additional, more intensive
instruction or Tier 2 (e.g., 30 additional minutes of daily reading instruction provided in a
small group). Students who failed to demonstrate appropriate response after a
predetermined amount of time (e.g., 12 weeks) would be referred to a more intensive tier
(e.g., Tier 3) in which additional adaptations would be made to individualize and
intensify the instruction. Although the structures of RTI models vary, in most, this would
represent a referral to special education. RTI is increasingly being implemented in
secondary schools as well. However, it is less clear whether RTI should play the same
role for older students (See King, Hill, & Lemons, 2012).

Why is it important?

RTI is a framework that schools use (a) to provide increasingly intensive

interventions to students who are struggling academically, and (b) to identify students
with SLD. It’s incorporation into IDEA dramatically increased the implementation in
schools. It is likely that MOSAIC graduates will be involved in RTI in some capacity
upon taking a teaching job (regardless of whether the job is general or special education).
RTI is important because it may reduce the number of students referred to special
education and it assists schools in providing supplemental services to students at risk for
academic failure.

References

Fuchs, D., Fuchs, L. S., & Compton, D. L. (2012). Smart RTI: A next-generation
approach to multilevel prevention. Exceptional Children, 78(3), 263-279.

King, S. A., Lemons, C. J., & Hill, D. R. (2012). Response to intervention in secondary
schools: Considerations for administrators. NASSP Bulletin, 12, 5-22. doi:
10.1177/0192636511430551

Web Links

IRIS Center – RTI: An Overview:

http://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/rti01_overview/chalcycle.htm
Evidence-based Practices Manual 11

Parent Participation

What is it?

Parental participation is a key component of the special education services.

Educators may employ a number of strategies to optimize parental participation in the
development of the individualized education plan (IEP) and overcome potential barriers
to collaboration (e.g., cultural differences, challenges related to language; Dabkowski,
2004). Person-centered planning (PCP; Keyes & Owens-Johnson, 2003) emphasizes a
strength-based consideration of the student that results in a personalized vision of the
future for the individual and plans for achieving that vision. The PCP process, though
flexible and informal, typically involves the inclusion of multiple family members who
assist the student in generating a personal profile, describing a desirable future, planning
for the attainment of the student’s goals, and a clear plan for monitoring the
implementation of the program. PCP is an adaptive technique used in a variety of
placements for children who encompass a diverse range of age groups and disabilities.

The Choosing Outcomes and Accommodations for Children (COACH; e.g.,

Giangreco, Cloninger, & Iverson, 2011) is an assessment and planning process designed
to assist school personnel in working collaboratively with families to develop IEPs for
students with high incidence disabilities. The COACH process begins with a family
interview that allows families to identify the highest priority learning goals for their child.
Additional learning outcomes are identified from the general educational curriculum.
Finally, families are encouraged to identify supports to be provided to or for students.
Throughout the COACH process, educators are encouraged to elicit opinions from family
members and actively involve the family in the creation of educational supports.

Why is it important?

Educators possess both legal and theoretical reasons for involving parents in the
education process. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires
educators to involve parents in decisions about assessment and the IEP. IDEA further
obligates schools to ensure parental participation through procedural safeguards and
rights, including the right of parents to provide consent to initial evaluations for special
education eligibility and placement, revoke consent for services, and pursue their right to
due process in the event of disagreements with the school. In addition, research has
identified numerous benefits of parent participation in the special education assessment
process and generation of the IEP (Turnbull, Turnbull, Erwin, Sodak, & Shogren, 2011).
Findings suggest that students whose parents are more engaged with school show higher
academic and behavioral achievement, improved attendance, and higher aspirations for
postsecondary education (Ferguson, 2008).

References

Dabkowski, D. M. (2004). Encouraging active parent participation in IEP team meetings.

Teaching Exceptional Children, 36(3), 34-39.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 12

Ferguson, C. (2008). The school-family connection: Looking at the larger picture. Austin,
TX: Southwest Educational Development Laboratories.

Ginagreco, M. F., Cloninger, C. J., & Iverson, V. S. (2011). Choosing outcomes and
accommodations for children (COACH): A guide to educational planning for students
with disabilities (3rd ed.). Baltimore: Brookes.

Keyes, M. W., & Owens-Johnson, L. (2003). Developing person-centered IEPs.

Intervention in School & Clinic, 38, 145-152.

Tunrnbull, A., Turnbull, R., Erwin, E. J., Soodak, L. C., & Shogren, K. A. (2011).
Families, professionals, and exceptionality: Positive outcomes through partnerships and
trust (6th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 13

Curriculum-Based Measurement (CBM)

What is it?

Curriculum-based measurement (CBM) is a set of methods used to index

academic competence and progress (Fuchs & Fuchs, 2002). CBM is designed to be an
efficient, reliable, and valid assessment of academic performance. Each assessment
samples a relatively broad range of skills by sampling from each dimension of the annual
curriculum. This sampling allows progress to be measured on equivalent forms across the
academic year. CBM is widely used in reading, mathematics, and writing (See Hosp,
Hosp, & Howell, 2007). Current research is examining the benefits of CBM is content
area classes (e.g., social studies and science).

The two most common reading CBM used in secondary classrooms are Oral
Reading Fluency (ORF) and MAZE. For ORF, students are presented with a grade-level
passage and are asked to read the passage aloud. The student’s score is the total number
of words read correctly in 1 minute. For MAZE, students are presented with a grade-level
passage from which every 7th word has been deleted and replaced with three choices
(including the deleted item) to complete the sentence. Students are given 2.5 minutes to
read the passage silently and circle the correct items to complete the sentences. Student
performance can be compared to established beginning, middle, and end-of-year
benchmarks and the data can be used to track student responsiveness to intervention.

Why is it important?

CBM is a critical feature of Response-to-Intervention (RTI). CBM is often the

key assessment used to evaluate student responsiveness to increasingly intensive levels of
intervention. Both special and general educators should be prepared to administer,
interpret, and graph CBM data.

References

Deno, S. L. (2003). Developments in curriculum-based measurement. The Journal of

Special Education, 37(3), 184-192. doi: 10.1177/00224669030370030801

Fuchs, L.S., & Fuchs, D. (2002). Describing competence, enhancing outcomes,

evaluating treatment effects, and identifying treatment nonresponders. Peabody Journal
of Education, 77(2), 64-84.

Hosp, M. K., Hosp, J. L., & Howell, K. W. (2007). The ABCs of CBM: A Practical Guide
to Curriculum-Based Measurement. New York: Guilford.

Web Links

IRIS Module: Classroom Assessment (Part 1): An Introduction to Monitoring Academic

Achievement in the Classroom (http://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/gpm/chalcycle.htm)
Evidence-based Practices Manual 14

National Center on Response to Intervention (http://www.rti4success.org/)

Evidence-based Practices Manual 15

Eligibility Assessment

What is it?

Eligibility for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act (IDEA) requires the school to establish a causal link between a student’s
documented disability and impaired functioning. The procedures for determining whether
a student is eligible for special education includes three key steps: (a) referral—the
school district, parents, or the state request evaluation and obtain parental consent; (b)
evaluation—school professionals evaluate the student and determine the presence of a
qualifying disability; and (c) eligibility—school professionals and parents meet to
determine the child’s eligibility for special education. Although medical professionals
typically diagnose severe disabilities, high-incidence evaluations (e.g., specific learning
disability [SLD], emotional disturbance [ED]) incorporate standardized tests batteries and
input from parents and teachers.

Specific eligibility assessment procedures vary according to factors such as locale

and the composition of the evaluation team. Nonetheless, a number of systematic
practices are available that encourage educators to use multiple sources of information in
the timely determination of special education eligibility. In addition to IQ tests and other
standardized forms of assessment, students with SLD are increasingly identified using
Response-to-Intervention models (RTI; Ahearn, 2009) that determine eligibility based on
their responsiveness to progressively intensive forms of remediation. Students whose
academic performance does not improve following multiple “tiers” of remediation may
require special education services. The Systematic Screening for Behavioral Disorders
(SSBD; Severson, Walker, Hope-Doolittle, Kratochwill, & Gresham, 2007) represents a
standardized method for identifying students with ED across three levels of assessment.
Educators rank students based on the exhibition of problem behaviors (e.g., depression,
aggression). Students with severe behavior characteristics are assessed using more
detailed measures (e.g., the Critical Life Events Checklist). Students who score below the
norm are assessed by outside professionals and, depending on the results, may be referred
to special education.

Why is it important?

The identification of students with disabilities is a fundamental role of special

education. Additional consideration is warranted due to the numerous ethical issues
related to eligibility determination, including: (a) reconciling the needs of students with
the necessity of controlling costs, and (b) the long-term consequences of excluding
students from special education versus the short-term consequences of including children
who fall on the borderline of a disability category. The emergence of empirically valid
assessment procedures provides educators with a potentially powerful tool in providing
services to students with disabilities.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 16

References

Ahearn, E. M. (2009). State eligibility requirements for specific learning disabilities.

Communication Disorders Quarterly, 30(2), 120-128.

Severson, H. H., Walker, H. M., Hope-Doolittle, J. Kratochwill, T. R., & Gresham, F. M.

(2007). Proactive, early screening to detect behaviorally at-risk students: Issues,
approaches, emerging innovations, and professional practices. Journal of School
Psychology, 45, 193-223.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 17

Accommodations Assessment

What is it?

The terms used to describe changes made to improve access and meaningful interface
with educational assessment for students with disabilities have been widely misunderstood, and
are confusing for both educators and parents. Accommodations for assessments are changes in
test-taking environments or materials that do not result in changes to the content of the
assessment. Since changes to testing materials can be made without making the test easier (like
using Braille, or large-print text) the term “assessment accommodation” can be said to represent
changes to the assessment materials or procedures that do not alter the validity of the testing
result.
Assessment modifications, on the other hand, are changes to the materials or procedures
end up producing invalid test scores. These changes would make the test easier to take for typical
students as well as for those with disabilities (an example of this would be to read a section of a
test aloud to a student). Despite the differences in these two terms, the word “accommodation” is
still used in policy standards as a general term referring to both.

Why is it important?

Researchers have tried to facilitate decision-making about the validity of assessment

modification/accommodation procedures by examining differences between students with and
without disabilities. Using this measurement, the degree to which a modification offers a
differential boost is calculated, to determine if the advantage it would offer a typical student is
offset by the differentially larger benefit to the student with a disability. Universally designed
assessments are another way that researchers are currently seeking to make assessment materials
meaningful for the broadest possible range of students while preserving the usefulness of the
score standard.

References

Cook, B.G. & Tankersly, M. (2013). Accommodations for Assessment. In A. Davis (Ed),
Research-Based Practices in Special Education (pp.311-327). Boston: Pearson.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 18

Functional Behavior Assessment

What is it?

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is aim to identify the type and source of
reinforcement that maintains problem behavior. The idea behind the FBA is to determine
reinforcement contingencies for problem behavior; develop interventions to decrease the
occurrence of these behaviors; and increase adaptive behavior by altering these
contingencies. Because many behaviors are learned through positive, negative, and/or
automatic reinforcement each behavior has a function. These functions (e.g., attention
condition, escape condition, tangible condition, play condition, and alone condition) can
be assessed by using FBA methods. These methods are functional analysis, descriptive
assessment, and indirect assessment (Neef, & Peterson, 2007).

Why is it important?

While the topography of behavior demonstrates little useful information about

under which conditions behavior occurs, the function of the behavior reveals useful
information that shows which when, how, and why behavior occurs. Thanks to this useful
knowledge, educators make interventions that aim to manipulate environmental variables
(e.g., antecedent variables) to decrease problem behavior. In other words, FBA can lead
to effective interventions by altering antecedent variables to prevent problem behavior,
identifying reinforcement contingencies, and selecting appropriate reinforcement for
alternative replacement behavior (Neef, & Peterson, 2007).

References

Neef, & Peterson (2007). Functional Behavior Assessment. In J.O. Cooper, T.E. Heron,
& W.L. Heward, Applied behavior analysis (2nd ed, p. 500-524). Upper Saddle River, NJ:
Pearson/ Merrill Prentice Hall

Web Links

Information on using FBAs

http://cecp.air.org/fba/default.asp
Evidence-based Practices Manual 19

Functional Analysis (FA)

What is it?

A functional analysis is term used by Skinner (1953) to illustrate the cause and
effect relationship between environmental factors and behavior (Hanley, Iwata, &
McCord, 2003). It describes a range of experimental conditions in which environmental
stimuli and events are manipulated in order to determine the function of a behavior. It is
part of a larger assessment called a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA). A FBA is
used to improve problem behavior by identifying variables of control to be later used to
implement behavioral treatment (Horner, 1994). The functional analysis procedure relies
on four areas that control problem behavior: attention, escape, automatic reinforcement,
and tangible items. This type of analysis has proven to be powerful by evidencing the
environmental factors that evoke problem behavior (Carr, 1994) and maintain it over time
(Iwata & Dozier, 2008). Although the process for conducting a FA varies, there are
several key components that must always be present. Each FA consists of a test
condition, assessment of reinforcers, and precise procedures. To ensure a FA is efficient,
control should be demonstrated over the dependent variable, independent
variable/treatment and confounding variables.

There are several variations of a FA, these include: full, brief, single-function,
alone series, precursor, latency, and trial-based. Each variation has specific guidelines
and reasons for executing it. Each type of FA requires an adequate amount of training, as
the practitioner must adhere to a pre-determined and consistent sequence of interactions.
Other factors must also be considered when implementing a FA, such as ability to limit
environmental conditions, amount of time, severity of problem behavior, and resources
(Iwata & Doizer, 2008).

Why is it important?

It is important for practitioners to discover how/why a problem behavior is

maintained prior to trying to reduce it. Without this type of empirical demonstration the
function of problem behavior may never me uncovered, resulting in inefficient behavioral
interventions. Indirect forms of behavioral assessment continue to be used; yet they
continue to be unreliable and yield inadequate interventions (Iwata & Dozier, 2008).
Severe and harmful behaviors often produce a required reaction from caregivers,
educators, and practitioners that end up strengthening the behavior. Behaviors requiring
intervention also tend to be disruptive and interrupt education and work. Using an
approach, such as a FA, that helps to identify the underlying function of behavior greatly
improves the quality and efficiency of the treatment (Iwata & Doizer, 2008).

References

Carrm E.G. (1994). Emerging themes in the functional analysis of problem behavior.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 27(2), 393-399.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 20

Hanley, G.P., Iwata, B.A., & McCord, B.E. (2003). Functional analysis of problem
behavior: A review. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 36(2), 147-185.

Horner, R.H. (1994). Functional assessment: Contributions and future directions. Journal
of Applied Behavior Analysis, 27(2), 401-404.

Iwata, Brian., & Dozier, C.L. (2008) Clinical application of functional analysis
methodology. Behavior Analysis Practice, 1(1), 3-9.

Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and human behavior. New York: Macmillan.

Web Links:

Association for Behavior Analysis International: http://www.abainternational.org/aba.asp

Behavior Analysis Incorporated: http://www.behavior-analysis.org

Applied Behavior Analysis Resources http://www.behaviorbabe.com/apps/links/

Evidence-based Practices Manual 21

Curriculum-Based Assessment (CBA)

What is it?

Curriculum-based assessment (CBA) is an evaluation process that makes use of

academic content selected directly from the material taught. This is a form of criterion-
referenced assessment that connects evaluation with instructional programs by informing
teachers of both student progress and learning challenges. A key characteristic of CBA is
that it provides a form of direct measurement where teachers are assessing precisely what
they teach, which is not always the case with indirect or norm-referenced assessments
that do not necessarily reflect the specific material covered in particular classroom.

Various approaches to CBA make use of direct, ongoing measurement involving

brief probes or other discreet measures that are focused on the direct skills, content, and
context of a given classroom. Most probes take between 1 and 5 minutes to administer
and are generally easy to score, making CBA a form of ongoing assessment of student
performance over time. Frequent collection of data is typically graphed for visual
analysis enabling an ability to target emerging skills, error patterns, or skills in need of
remediation.

Examples of CBA strategies and procedures include miscue and error analysis to
assess issues in reading such as additions, substitutions, omissions, reversals, or reading
words not displayed in a text. Informal reading inventories may be used to establish
appropriate reading materials for students or group placement in reading groups.
Checklists and rating scales can be used to record detail student performance
systematically. The collection of student work samples may also be used as a portfolio
assessment to collect student work that is in progress in addition to final products for
evaluation.

Why is it important?

The use of CBA is a student-centered approach to evaluating and documenting

student progress that provides teachers with a valuable tool for planning, delivering, and
assessing instruction. The simple, yet ongoing nature of CBA means that educators can
make regular use of assessment procedures in order to continually modify and adapt
instructional objectives while individualizing instruction as needed.

References

Burns, M.K. (2002). Utilizing a comprehensive system of assessment to intervention

using curriculum-based assessments. Intervention in School and Clinic, 38, 8-13.

Cook, B.G., & Tankersley. (2013). Research-based practices in special education.

Boston: Pearson Education, Inc.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 22

Web Links

National Center on Student Progress Monitoring: http://www.studentprogress.org/

Evidence-based Practices Manual 23

Data-Based Decision Making

What is it?

Data-based decision making involves using the information collected about

student performance and responsiveness through screening and progress monitoring (i.,e.,
data) to systematically determine how the school will best enhance student outcomes
through increasingly intensive layers of support (i.e., decision making). Data-based
decision making is the fundamental core of Response-to-Intervention (RTI). Decision-
making often entails making changes to the instruction or intervention provided a specific
student. It may also involve making changes to school-wide instruction and intervention
efforts. (e.g., implement a core vocabulary intervention across all content area classes).

Why is it important?

Response-to-Intervention does not function without decision-making based upon

data. In secondary schools, decision-making often involves a wider array of variables
than at the elementary level. General and special educators should be (a) knowledgeable
of the various data used to evaluate RTI at the secondary level, and (b) should be
prepared to collect and interpret these data to evaluate student response and instructional
effectiveness.

References

Fuchs, D., Fuchs, L. S., & Compton, D. L. (2012). Smart RTI: A next-generation
approach to multilevel prevention. Exceptional Children, 78(3), 263-279.

Hamilton, L., Halverson, R., Jackson, S., Mandinach, E., Supovitz, J., & Wayman, J.
(2009). Using student achievement data to support instructional decision making (NCEE
2009-4067). Washington, DC: National Center for Education Evaluation and Regional
Assistance, Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. Retrieved
from http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/publications/practiceguides/.

Web Links

Building RTI Capacity – Using Data to Differentiate Intervention Instruction: A Middle

School Example [Audio-enhanced PowerPoint presentation]
[(http://buildingrti.utexas.org/CAP/Using_Data/Using_Data.swf)

National Center on Response to Intervention – Data-Based Decision Making Resources

(http://www.rti4success.org/categorycontents/data-based_decision_making)

Smart RTI: A Next Generation Approach to Multi-Level Prevention [Webinar by Doug

Fuchs]
(http://www.rti4success.org/webinar/smart-rti-next-generation-approach-multi-level-
prevention-3106)
Evidence-based Practices Manual 24

Progress Monitoring

What is it?

Progress monitoring is scientifically based practice used to assess both academic

performance of students and the effectiveness of instruction (see National Center on
Student Progress Monitoring, link below). Teachers implement progress monitoring by
evaluating a student’s current level of performance, establishing meaningful goals for the
student to reach over time, and assessing advancement toward these goals on a frequent
(e.g., weekly, monthly) basis. Student performance is used to determine when
instructional changes may be needed to ensure the student meets the established goal in a
timely manner. Curriculum-based measurement (CBM) is the most common assessment
used to monitor student progress.

Why is it important?

Research has demonstrated that monitoring student progress is associated with

greater student outcomes. Teachers who use data to evaluate student performance on a
frequent basis are able to adjust instruction to meet student needs more efficiently and
effectively than teachers who rely on end-of-year summative assessments. Progress
monitoring is a critical feature of Response-to-intervention (RTI) and general and special
education teachers should be familiar with how to implement and interpret progress
monitoring data.

References

Fuchs, L.S., Deno, S.L., & Mirkin, P.K. (1984). The effects of frequent curriculum-based
measurement and evaluation on pedagogy, student achievement, and student awareness
of learning. American Educational Research Journal, 21(2), 449-460.

Reed, D.K., Wexler, J., & Vaughn, S. (2012). RTI for reading at the secondary level:
Recommended literacy practices and remaining questions. New York, NY: Guilford
Press.

Web Links

National Center on Response to Intervention – Progress Monitoring Resources

(http://www.rti4success.org/categorycontents/progress_monitoring)

National Center on Student Progress Monitoring

(http://www.studentprogress.org/default.asp)
Evidence-based Practices Manual 25

Precision Teaching

What is it?

Precision Teaching (PT), originated by Ogden Lindsley, emanated from the work
of B. F. Skinner (White, 1986). The PT process covers five major tenets regarding
instruction and assessment: learner knows best, identify directly observable behaviors,
measure frequency of behavior, employ the standard celeration chart, describe and
analysis the environment affecting behavior (White, 1986). As a supplement to traditional
instruction, teachers can use PT in two major ways – assessment and practice. Due to the
fine grained analysis of behavior and measurably superior data display, teachers can
uniquely examine and assess behavior in time (Kubina & Yurich, 2012). Based on those
assessments, teachers can identify and adapt to each student’s needs with accurate
frequency building practice procedures.

Why is it important?

Secondary students can benefit from PT in a variety of ways. All topics and
academic areas contain elemental skills that combine to form compound knowledge.
Within difficult material (i.e., content area), teachers can identify core measurable
academic behaviors to assess all students, not just those with disabilities. Once identified
and following instruction, teachers can implement frequency building exercises on
important behaviors influencing future instruction and performance. In Chemistry, for
example, students must rely on knowledge of the periodic table of the elements, a
bedrock skill, as they advance through the course. Implementing PT, allows teachers to
assess instruction and prior knowledge of the chart. They then can incorporate an
individualized, systematic practice dedicated to promoting fluent identification of
elemental symbols at a certain rate. Progressing in this manner would assist all students
in future skills involving the use of the elemental names. The process can continue
throughout the year on other identified skills and in other content areas.

References

Kubina, R. M., & Yurich, K. (2012). The Precision Teaching Book. Lemont, PA:
Greatness Achieved.

White, O. R. (1986). Precision teaching—Precision learning. Exceptional Children, 52,

522-534

Web Links

Celeration.org - Website focused on Precision Teaching and Standard Celeration

Charting: www.celeration.org
Evidence-based Practices Manual 26

Task Analysis

What is it?

Task analysis is the breaking down of a complex skill or activity into a series of
smaller steps and then teaching the sequence of steps as a series of cues. Task analysis
may be useful for a wide range of student ability, although it is used extensively to assist
students with more severe intellectual disabilities.

A behavioral chain makes up the steps used in task analysis so that each response
in the chain acts as a cue. In this way, each completed step in a behavioral chain cues the
student to move forward until the last step in the chain is accomplished and reinforcement
is earned. Proper implementation of task analysis requires the consideration of
prerequisite skills that must first be mastered in order for a student to perform a new task
sequence. A particular format for task analysis must also be chosen such as forward and
backward chaining or total or whole task presentation. Additionally, individual
characteristics of students need to be taken into consideration in order to choose for an
effective prompting system to teach the task analysis.

Why is it important?

Task analysis has been found to be a useful instructional tool to initially assess
what specific skills within a particular task a student may or may not have mastered. The
practice puts into a place a plan for how to go about thoughtfully breaking down and
teaching a particular set of skills in a way that allows for regular feedback and progress
monitoring. Grounded in applied behavior analysis, task analysis has been found to be a
most effective practice for individuals with more severe disabilities.

References

Alberto, P.A., & Troutman, A.C. (2009). Applied behaviro analysis for teachers. (8th ed.).
Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Cook, B.G., & Tankersley. (2013). Research-based practices in special education. Upper
Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Web Links

Modules for Addressing Special Education and Teacher Education:

http://mast.ecu.edu/modules/ta/

Summary of Task Analyses:

http://classweb.gmu.edu/ndabbagh/Resources/Resources2/taskanalysis2.htm

Summary of Chaining and Shaping:

http://www.bbbautism.com/aba_shaping_and_chaining.htm
Evidence-based Practices Manual 27

Self-Determination

What is it?

Self-determination has been defined in multiple ways for the last 20 years.
However, the underline concept of self-determination involves making personal decisions
based on one’s interests and beliefs. The component elements of self-determination that
are commonly taught to students include choice/decision making, goal setting/attainment,
problem solving, self-evaluation/management, self-advocacy, person-centered
individualized education planning (IEP), and self -awareness (Wehmeyer & Field, 2007).
All of these components emphasize the importance of students actively participating in
their educational choices. For students with disabilities, self-determination allows
meaningful participation in the IEP process.

Why is it important?

Beginning at age 14, students begin their transition from adolescence to

adulthood. Self-determination is an important organizing tool and is essential for
successful transition programs (Kohler & Field, 2003). By actively participating in the
development of their transition IEP, students can make critical choices and actions that
will affect them for a lifetime. Additionally, Wehmeyer and Palmer (2003) report that
self-determination skills in high school are significant predictors of post school education
and independent living success.

References

Kohler, P., & Field, S. (2003). Transition focused education: Foundation for the future.
The Journal of Special Education, 37(3), 174-183.

Wehmeyer, M. L., & Field, S. (2007). Self-determination instructional and support

strategies. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.

Wehmeyer, M. L., & Palmer, S. (2003). Adult outcomes for students with cognitive
disabilites three years after high school: The impact of self-determination. Education and
Training in Developmental Disabilities, 38, 131-144.

Web Links

Project 10 Transition Education Network

http://www.project10.info/

National Secondary Transition Technical Assistance Center (nsttac)

http://www.nsttac.org/
Evidence-based Practices Manual 28

Community Based Instruction

What is it?

Community based instruction (CBI) is effective individualized instruction

designed to teach specific skills based on the needs of the student (Bates, Cuvo, Miner, &
Korabek, 2001). Students learn and apply vocational and independent functioning skills
in various real life settings under the supervision of a teacher or other support staff. CBI
is typically taken as a high school course for credit during the student’s junior or senior
year. Before a student begins CBI, an IEP meeting is conducted and the team develops
educational goals for the student. Once the IEP goals are written, a schedule and
placement are established and the student begins his or her CBI. The ultimate goal of CBI
is to prepare students for successful transition to adulthood after high school graduation.
Other benefits of CBI are an enhanced quality of life and to provide skills to help the
student live and work independently (Wehman & Kregel, 2004).

Why is it important?

Community based instruction provides students with disabilities the opportunity

to learn independent functioning and job related skills in a natural environment (e.g.
actual places of employment) instead of learning simulated job skills in the classroom.
Research shows that persons with disabilities often have difficulty in generalizing skills
and learning abstract concepts (Bates, Cuvo, Miner, & Korabek, 2001). Therefore,
“learning by doing” opportunities must be provided for these students and the learning
must take place in the natural environments in which skills are typically expected to
occur.

References

Bates, P. E., Cuvo, T., Miner, C. A., & Korabek, C. A. (2001). Simulated and
community-based instruction involving persons with mild and moderate mental
retardation. Research in developmental disabilities, 22(2), 95-115.

Wehman, P., & Kregel, J. (2004). Functional curriculum for elementary, middle, and
secondary age students with special needs. PRO-ED, Inc. 8700 Shoal Creek Blvd,
Austin, TX 78757.

Web Links

Transition Community Network

http://www.tcntransition.org/index.php

National Center on Response to Intervention

http://www.rti4success.org/
Evidence-based Practices Manual 29

Assistive Technology (AT)

What is it?

Assistive technology (AT) is usually classified as either a device or a service. An

AT device is any item that is used to improve the functioning of a student with a
disability (Pierce & Porter, 1996). AT devices can be complex (such as an augmentative
communication device), or simple (a picture attached to a board by Velcro). An AT
service simply includes the maintenance, repairing, supplying and training of the AT
device. A student who is eligible for special education is entitled to AT devices and
services if they are needed for that student to receive “a free and appropriate public
education” (IDEA, 2004). The basic function of all AT is to eliminate or reduce the
number of communication barriers caused by a student’s disability.

Why is it important?

The ability to communicate is essential to successful educational outcomes for

students with disabilities. Unfortunately, many students with disabilities are unable to
communicate either vocally or physically due to motor and sensory impairments.
Assistive technology provides students’ with disabilities a tool to communicate their
wants and needs (Lancioni, O’Reilly, & Basili, 2001).

References

Lancioni, G. E., O’Reilly, M. F., & Basili, G. (2001). Use of microswitches and speech
output systems with people with severe/profound intellectual or multiple disabilities: A
literature review. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 22(1), 21-40.

Pierce, P. L., & Porter, P. B. (1996). Helping Persons with Disabilities to Become
Literate Using Assistive Technology Practice and Policy Suggestions. Focus on Autism
and Other Developmental Disabilities, 11(3), 142-146.

Web Links

The Family Center on Technology and Disability

http://www.fctd.info/resources

Center for Implementing Technology in Education

http://www.cited.org/index.aspx?page
Evidence-based Practices Manual 30

Instructional Technology

What is it?

The use of instructional technology to support learning is bolstered by a growing

body of research that explores its usefulness in teaching students with a wide range of
abilities. As new and improving technology develops and access continues to expand,
instructional technology offers a way to teach to a variety of learning styles through
flexibility and scaffolding while maintaining student engagement and motivation.

Computer-mediated instruction (CMI) has been a focus in recent years, moving

away from the use of software that simply provides drill-and-practice as a model of
technology use. CMI integrates technology in a way that is intended to build on prior
knowledge in order to scaffold student learning toward higher order thinking and
improved problem solving skills. CMI fosters a more interactive learning experience that
makes use of multimedia technology that is able to accommodate diverse learners of
varying ability and proficiency.

Why is it important?

A main strength of instructional technology is its adaptability. For example, text

can be presented in a variety of ways by adjusting font size or making use of read aloud
features. Through the use of video, graphics, hypertext, and speech production programs,
material is customized and differentiated to meet the needs of individual students. By
doing so, students with disabilities are afforded access to curriculum and to general
education classrooms in ways that may not have been accommodated in the past.

References

Cook, B.G., & Tankersley. (2013). Research-based practices in special education.

Boston: Pearson Education, Inc.

Web Links

Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT):

http://aect.site-ym.com/

National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard (NIMAS):

http://aim.cast.org/

Center for Applied Special Technology:

http://www.cast.org/index.html

IRIS Module (Bookshare: Providing Accessible Materials for Students with Print
Disabilities):
http://www.iriscenter.com/bs/chalcycle.htm
Evidence-based Practices Manual 31

Instructional Design Knowledge Base:

http://classweb.gmu.edu/ndabbagh/Resources/IDKB/index.htm
Evidence-based Practices Manual 32

Peer-Assisted Learning Strategies (PALS)

What is it?

Peer-Assisted Learning Strategies or PALS is an evidence-based reading

intervention implemented as an extension of core classroom reading programs. PALS
requires approximately 30 minutes 3 times a week for 16 to 20 weeks to be effective.
PALS initially targets struggling readers in the primary grades by pairing readers of
higher and lower proficiency to practice skills in phonological awareness, word
recognition, phonics, fluency, and comprehension. Structured dialogue about the text is
incorporated from grade 2 and higher to address the increased complexity of reading and
enhance comprehension. There are also middle and high school versions of the program
that increasingly emphasize comprehension skills. Each student in the dyad takes a turn
being the reader or coach, allowing for active engagement with the text and increased
practice time compared to regular instruction. The teacher is responsible for matching
the students’ needs and abilities with the proper reading materials and for monitoring
their progress. Positive reinforcement through praise and point systems are built into the
program to increase on-task time and student motivation.

Why is it important?

Graduates from the MOSAIC program will need access to reading interventions
that are evidence-based, easy to implement, and effective for a variety of learners. PALS
is important because its structure allows for scaffolding and differentiated instruction in
the classroom. It has also been shown through empirically designed research to increase
reading outcomes for low, average and high achieving students as well as English
Language Learners (ELLs). PALS can be implemented within a Response to
Intervention (RtI) framework in accordance with IDEA 2004. Evidence suggests that
PALS, when implemented with fidelity in conjunction with Tier-1 instruction, can reduce
the number of student placements in Tiers 2 and 3. PALS programs are generally
inexpensive and have been described by educators as easy to implement and enjoyable to
use.

References

Fuchs, D., Fuchs, L.S., Thompson, A., Yen, L., Al Otaiba, S., Nyman, K., Svenson, E.,
Yang, N., Prentice, K., Kazdan, S., & Saentz, L. (2001). Peer-assisted learning strategies
in reading: Extensions for kindergarten, first grade, and high school. Remedial and
Special Education, 22, 15-21.

Fuchs, D., Fuchs, L.S., & Burish, P. (2000). Peer-Assisted Learning Strategies: An
evidence-based practice to promote reading achievement. Learning Disabilities Research
and Practice, 15, 85-91.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 33

Web Links

Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development- PALS:

http://kc.vanderbilt.edu/pals
Evidence-based Practices Manual 34

Class-wide Peer Tutoring (CWPT)

What is it?

Class-wide Peer Tutoring (CWPT) is an intervention in which all students within

a classroom are arranged in pairs (one tutor; one tutee) to complete learning activities.
Students earn points for competing teams by responding correctly to tasks. The system
was originally developed to increase academic achievement in low-income schools and is
based on research behind interventions that show improvements in the rate of acquisition
of skills via peer-based interventions. The basic components of CWPT are (a)
presentation of material that is to be learned or reviewed, (b) teacher created/provided
materials to be completed, (c) different pairings each week, (d) pairing techniques (e)
students engage in both roles (tutor and tutee) during each CWPT session, (f) team
competition to earn the most points, (g) each team member aims to contribute points, (h)
prompt responsive feedback provided by tutors when the partner make an error, (i) points
earned are displayed for each student and team, and (j) reinforcement provided to the
team with the most points. While acting as a tutor (provides prompt) or a tutee (provides
response), students are engaged systematized and fast-paced activities in which tutors
give consistent feedback to the tutees (See Greenwood et al., 1992; Greenwood &
Delquadri, 1995).

Why is it important?

CWPT has the potential to (a) be an effective classroom intervention to increase

skill acquisition in reading (WWC, 2007), (b) meet the needs of increasingly diverse
classrooms, (c) be implemented with relative ease at the classroom level, and (d) be a
socially valid intervention (Maheady & Gard, 2010).

References

Greenwood, C.R. & Delquadri, J. (1995). Classwide peer tutoring and the prevention of
school failure. Preventing School Failure, 39(4).

Greenwood, C.R, Terry, B., Arreaga-Mayer, C., & Finney, R. (1992). The classwide peer
tutoring program: Implementation factors moderating students’ achievement. Journal of
Applied Behavior Analysis, 25(1), 101-116.

Maheady, L. & Gard, J. (2010). Classwide peer tutoring: Practice, theory, research, and
personal narrative. Intervention in School and Clinic, 46(2), 71-78.

U.S. Department of Education. Institue of Education Sciences. National Center for

Education Evalutaion and Regional Assistance. What Works Clearinghouse Intervention
report- Beginning reading: Classwide peer tutoring. (9 July 2007).
Evidence-based Practices Manual 35

Web Links

Promising Practices Network

http://www.promisingpractices.net/program.asp?programid=99

Center for Effective Collaboration and Practice

http://cecp.air.org/familybriefs/docs/PeerTutoring.pdf
Evidence-based Practices Manual 36

Direct Instruction (DI)

What is it?

Direct Instruction (DI) provides students with efficient instruction that ensures
students learn the greatest amount of material in the shortest amount of time. Three main
components of DI are (a) program design, (b) instructional organization, and (c) student-
teacher interactions. DI program design involves the identification of key concepts, rules,
and strategies that will be taught and presented via clear and concise programs of
instruction. Considerations for organizing instruction include effective and efficient
program organization (i.e., schedules, formation of student groups, and continuous
student progress monitoring). Student-teacher interactions must be constant and active to
ensure students are engaged and are learning the material covered in each lesson. The
chart below provides more information about the features within each of the three main
components (See Watkins & Slocum, 2003).

DI Features
Component
Program Analyze content, communicate clearly, use specific instructional
Design formats, sequence skills, and build skill tracks instead of units.
Instructional Group students based on required prerequisite skills, maximize
Organization instructional time (academic learning time), follow presentation scripts,
and continuously monitor progress.
Student- Students actively participate in lessons, utilize group unison responses,
Teacher use teacher signals to cue group responses, maintain a rapid instructional
Interactions pace, teach until concepts are mastered, use an immediate and direct
error correction procedure, and use appropriate placement to increase
motivation.

Why is it important?

According to Project Follow Through, which compared the effectiveness of a

variety of instructional approaches, DI was found to be the only approach that resulted in
statistically significant improvements in basic skills, cognitive-conceptual, and affective
measures. A teacher who uses DI lesson plans ensures that his or her students are
receiving evidence-based instruction that has been researched and found to be a valid and
reliable method to effectively teach new material to students. With the emphasis on
accountability and ensuring the high levels of achievement of all students in today’s
schools, the use of evidence-based interventions, like DI, is critical (Donlevy, 2010).

References

Donlevy, J. (2010). Teachers, technology, and training: Direct instruction: Structured

programs for student success. International Journal of Instructional Media, 37(3), 225-
226.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 37

Watkins, C. L. & Slocum, T.A. (2003). The components of direct instruction. Journal of
Direct Instruction, 3(2), 75-110.

Web Links

National Institute for Direct Instruction

http://www.nifdi.org

Association for Direct Instruction

http://www.adihome.org
Evidence-based Practices Manual 38

Use of Praise

What is it?

Most teachers strive to provide their students a positive climate for learning
(Emmer & Evertson, 2009). In combination with other approaches (e.g., classroom rules
and expectations, etc.), the effective use of praise helps promote an effective learning
environment. Praise consists of the teacher providing approval for student’s or students’
behavior. When approval is combined with a label for the behavior (i.e., You did a great
job putting your books away), teachers make use of descriptive or specific praise. In total,
praise has long been known to effectively and efficiently help classroom management
concerns as well as academic outcomes (Brophy, 1981). With the primary job of creating
student behavior via instruction and practice, teachers who effectively use praise
encourage students to continue to perform appropriate pro-social and academic
behaviors.

Why is it important?

Praise is a versatile and important teaching tool, because first and foremost
teachers consistently have it ready supply. Teachers can attend to students before, during,
and after instruction – almost anytime during the school day. Teachers can use praise for
both academic (e.g., Way to go! You answered that problem correctly) and social
behaviors (Wow. Awesome job taking turns). Teachers can also use praise to supplement
and enforce classroom rules such as waiting to answer a question until being
acknowledged. Praise not only conveys important meaning to students, but also often acts
as positive reinforcement or a way to increase the likelihood of the behavior it follows.
When used effectively, praise provides a cost-effective classroom management aide to
even the most difficult teaching situations.

References

Brophy, J. (1981). Teacher praise: A functional analysis. Review of Educational

Research, 51, 5-32

Emmer, E. T., & Evertson, C. M. (2009). Classroom management for middle and high
school teachers. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Web Links

IRIS Center – Encouraging Appropriate Behavior

iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/case_studies/ICS-005.pdf
Evidence-based Practices Manual 39

High Probability Requests

What is it?

High Probability Requests (HPR) is an antecedent-based intervention used to

increase compliance through high-probability request sequences (HPRS). The basis for
HPR involved presenting several high-probability requests that a person has a history of
responding positively to, prior to presenting a request that a person has a low-probability
of responding to (noncompliance). There has been a considerable amount of research
completed that demonstrates the compliance increases when high probability requests are
paired with a low-probability request. Additionally, antecedent-based interventions, such
as HPR, have shown to increase compliance when compared to other approaches (Pitts &
Dymond, 2011).

The HPR intervention involves quickly presenting 2-3 high probability requests
before presenting the low-probability task. Implementing this type of compliance
sequence seems to help reduce frustration and lessen the resistance to compliance. By
obtaining compliance to high-probability requests, an amount of momentum is built
within the response class of behaviors, thus making it likely the person will respond
positively to the low-probability request (Banda & Kubina, 2006).

Why is it important?

Handling problem behavior can be quite a challenge for educators and others that
work with individuals with behavior difficulties. Noncompliance can have a negative
impact on vocational, personal, social, and academic success (Lee, 2005). Specifically,
the number of students attending public schools with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is
likely to increase due to the rise in of individuals diagnosed with ASD. Students with
ASD tend to experience difficulty with transitioning from task-to-task and can engage in
tantrum-like behaviors in response to these transitions. HPR has shown to be helpful by
increasing compliance relative to transitions for students with ASD (Banda & Kubina,
2006). Additionally, children with academic and/or behavior problems tend to have much
difficulty initiating or completing a requested task within a specific time period due to
noncompliant behavior. HPR has been used to help treat noncompliance relative to
latency (Wehby & Hollahan, 2000).

References

Banda, D.R., & Kubina, R.M., Jr. (2006). The effects of high-probability request
sequencing technique in enhancing transition behaviors. Education and Treatment of
Children, 29(3), 507-516.

Lee, D.L. (2005). Increasing compliance: A quantitative synthesis of applied research on

high-probability request sequences. Exceptionality, 13(3), 141-154.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 40

Pitts, L., & Dymond, S. (2011) Increasing compliance of children with autism: Effects of
programmed reinforcement for high-probability requests and varied inter-instruction
intervals. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 6, 135-143.

Wehby, J.H., & Hollahan, M.S. (2000). Effects of high-probability requests on the
latency to initiate academic tasks. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 33(2), 259-262.

Web Links

University of Minnesota: High Probability Request Sequence Videos and Examples

http://slhslinux.cla.umn.edu/fullcourse/Module3/Antecedent_Focused/maf08.html

Professional Development in Autism: Get Connected Tip Sheet

http://www.haringcenter.washington.edu/sites/default/files/file/HPR%20Tip%20Sheet.pd
f
Evidence-based Practices Manual 41

Opportunities to Respond

What is it?

Teachers deliver academic information and experiences to students with the goal
of improving student knowledge and outcomes. To verify knowledge, teachers make
academic requests, or in other words provide students opportunities to respond (OTR),
which prompts active student responding to academic material (Heward, 2009). When
students actively engage to opportunities to respond, teachers can evaluate learning,
correct errors, and modify instruction. Without prompting, students tend to passively
engage with academic content which hinders a teacher’s ability to confirm student
knowledge.

Why is it important?

Providing students many distinct OTR sets the stage for improving student
outcomes (Greenwood et al., 1984). In secondary classroom settings, directly posing
questions to individual students allows teachers to assess knowledge and provide
immediate error correction. Teachers that can incorporate situations when multiple
students can actively interact with information simultaneously (e.g., group discussions,
choral responding) increases OTR exponentially (Heward, 2009). Student output can
occur in both silent (i.e., written or gestural) and vocal, verbal forms. In response,
students that are given more OTR stay more engaged in instruction, demonstrate
improved academic outcomes and provide teachers more situations to provide praise
(Partin et al., 2010). The combination of OTR, active academic responses, and teacher
praise provide a backbone for the educational process.

References

Greenwood, C. R., Delquadri, J.C., & Hall, R.V. (1984). Opportunity to respond and
student academic performance. In W.L. Heward, T.E., D.S. Hill, J. Trap-Porter (Eds.),
Focus on behavior analysis in education (pp. 58-88). Columbus, OH: Merrill.

Heward, W. L. (2009) Exceptional children: An introduction to special education (9th

ed.). Columbus, OH: Merrill.

Partin, T.C., Robertson, R. E., Maggin, D. M., Oliver, R. M. & Wehby, J. H. (2010).
Using teacher praise and opportunities to respond to promote appropriate student
behavior. Preventing School Failure, 54, 172-178.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 42

Self-Management

What is it?

Teaching students self-management skills means teaching students to be in

control of his or her own behavior. When a student has learned to self-manage, the
student is reinforced intrinsically (self-directed) rather than externally (teacher/adult
directed). Self-management requires the development of clear routines in which students
can anticipate when he or she will receive behavior-related feedback. When a student has
developed self-management skills he or she has learned to self-reinforce desired behavior
by using self-praise or delivering a self-provided tangible reinforcer.

The four essential components of self-management are self-monitoring, self-

instruction, self-evaluation/assessment, and self-reinforcement. The chart below provides
more detailed information regarding the four major components of self-management (See
Jolivette et al., 2013).

Major In collaboration with his or her teacher, a student must…

Component
Self- Acknowledge whether the target behavior occurred and record the
Monitoring occurrence or nonoccurrence of the behavior.
Self- Identify the problem, attend to the situation, and work through the plan.
Instruction
Self- Conduct a performance assessment, set observable and realistic goals,
Evaluation/ develop a schedule for data collection and evaluation, and compare
Assessment student performance to the goal that was set.
Self- Identify effective reinforcers, set up a schedule of reinforcement, and
Reinforcement decide on rules for reinforcement.

Why is it important?

There have been many important benefits identified in teaching students self-
management including (a) improved maintenance of newly acquired positive behaviors,
(b) freeing-up teacher time and resources to attend to other issues, (c) building student
independence, and (d) enhanced perception of responsibility and ownership over one’s
own behavior and choices (Jolivette et al., 2013).

References

Fitzpatrick, M. & Knowlton, E. (2009). Bringing evidence-based self-directed

intervention practices to the trenches for students with emotional and beahvioral
disorders. Preventing School Failure. 53(4), 253-266.

Jolivette, K., Alter, P., Scott, T. M., Josephs, N. L., & Swoszowski, N. C. (2013).
Strategies to prevent problem behavior. In Cook, B.G., & Tankersly, M. (Eds.),
Evidence-based Practices Manual 43

Research-Based Practices in Special Education. (pp. 149-152). Upper Saddle River, NJ:
Pearson. [Hardcover. ISBN:0-13-702-876-8.]

Web Links

Teaching Self Management Skills (University of Kansas)

http://www.specialconnections.ku.edu/?q=behavior_plans/positive_behavior_support_int
erventions/teacher_tools/teaching_self_management_skills
Evidence-based Practices Manual 44

Choice Making

What is it?

Choice making is an antecedent intervention that generally follows five steps. It

is an intervention that is simple to follow and easy to implement throughout the day.
Using choice as an intervention has the ability to reduce problem behavior in the
classroom. Across most of the research on choice making, 5 steps are typically followed:
A) Offering the student or group of students a choice of two or more options, B) Ask for
a choice to be made, C) wait for the choice to be made, D) student(s) respond, E) if after
a predetermined amount of time a choice has not been made, prompt the student(s) to
make a choice, and F) Reinforce the selection by giving the student(s) the item that was
chosen. This intervention is preventative and should be implemented prior to the
occurrence of problem behavior. Decisions on when to implement should be formulated
from data collected on the naturally occurring patterns of problem behavior exhibited by
the target student(s).

Why is it important?

Choice making is an important practice for a few basic reasons. It is easy to

implement, it is a non-evasive antecedent manipulation, and it can be used with a variety
of students or for a variety of problem behaviors.

References

Sigafoos, F., & Dempsey, R. (1992). Assessing choice making among children with
multiple disabilities. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 25, 747-755.

Shogren, R. E., & Faggella-Luby, M. N., Bae, A. J., & Wehmeyer, M. L. (2004). The
effect of choice-making as an intervention for problem behavior: A meta-analysis.
Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 6, 228-237.

Web Links

http://www.bridgeschool.org/transition/multimodal/choice_making.php

http://www.cdd.unm.edu/autism/autism_course/modules/behavior/choice/index.htm
Evidence-based Practices Manual 45

Pre-Correction

What is it?

Pre-correction is a very simple tool that can be used to “get ahead” of problem
behavior. Just as it’s name suggests, it is an antecedent manipulation that occurs before
the onset of the targeted problem behavior. To use Pre-Correction properly, it is
important to first understand the target behavior and the circumstances under which that
behavior occurs. Predicting behavior means anticipating when it will occur, or
understanding the antecedents. For example, if a student generally calls out of turn when
the teacher presents a question to the class, the teacher might first state, “remember to
raise your hand when you want to speak” prior to asking the class her question. The
teacher knows that asking a question to the class is an antecedent for calling out. By
placing a verbal prompt (“remember to raise your hand”) before the antecedent (asking
the question) she is lowering the chances the target behavior (calling out) will occur. The
next step in the process involves replacement behaviors. To rid an aberrant behavior
from a child’s repertoire is more effective when an appropriate replacement behavior can
take its place. The new appropriate behavior is an opportunity for reinforcement. The
final component of Pre-Correction is delivering reinforcement. Consistency and potency
of reinforcement contribute to the effectiveness of replacing behavior when using Pre-
Correction.

Why is it important?

There are a few basic reasons that Pre-correction is an important skill to bring to
the classroom. The primary reason is that it is simple. By identifying antecedents,
predicting the onset of aberrant behavior, and reinforcing the absence of that behavior a
teacher can accurately use the Pre-Correction model.

References

Colvin, G., Sugai, G., & Patching, B. (1993). Pre-correction: An instructional approach
for managing predictable problem behaviors. Intervention in School and Clinic, 28, 143-
150.

Haydon, T., & Scott, T. M. (2008). Using common sense in common settings: Active
supervision and pre-correction in the morning gym. Intervention in School and Clinic,
43, 283-290.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 46

Graphic Organizer

What is it?

A graphic organizer is a visual representation of text elements or text structures,

ideas or causal connections. Story elements from text are placed in graphic shapes, one
per shape such as circles or squares. Arrows show direction and connections between
each of the story elements. When viewed together these elements show the basis for
understanding the story. These elements might explain the order of events of a story, or
all the elements involved in the story such as setting, characters, and plot. The visual map
of text elements supports the student in understanding relationships between story
elements and causal order of events.

Why is it important?

Research suggests that graphic organizers may improve the content and quality of
information children report even after a significant delay between exposure to
information and the oral reporting. Helping students gain explicit knowledge of text
structures may improve their conceptual knowledge that supports their understanding.

References

Robinson, D.H. & Kiewra, K. A. (1995). Visual argument: Graphic organizers are
superior to outlines in improving learning from text. Journal of Educational Psychology,
8(3), 455-467.

Kim, A., Vaughn, S., Wanzek, J., & Wei, S. (2004). Graphic organizers and their effects
on the reading comprehension of students with LD: A synthesis of research. Journal of
Learning Disabilities, 37(2), 105-118.
Doi: 10.1177/00222194040370020201
Evidence-based Practices Manual 47

Mnemonics

What is it?

Mnemonics are techniques that aid memory by transferring abstract information into
forms that are more relatable, personal, or concrete. The Keyword Method identifies a word that
sounds similar to information to be remembered and pairs them together. For example, to
remember that a ranidae is a word for common frogs, students might use the keyword, rain. The
teacher can then show students a picture of a frog in the rain or carrying an umbrella. The teacher
rehearses with the students making sure that the connection between the keyword and vocabulary
word is established. Another mnemonic technique, the Pegword Method, substitutes a word for a
number and is especially useful for remembering ordered information. To remember that a spider
has eight legs, a student would associate the number 8 with the word gate. Then, an image is
shown to the student of a spider sitting on a gate. Letter Strategies such as acronyms [HOMES=
Great Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior] and acrostics [My very educated mother
just served us nine pizzas= the order of the planets] have been successfully used to remember lists
of information.

Why is it Important?

Increasingly, students with high-incidence disabilities (HID) are being educated in

mainstream classrooms in secondary schools. However, students with HID may need additional
supports and learning strategies in order to be successful in these academically challenging
environments. Students with high incidence disabilities (HID) often have memory deficits in
several areas, including short term, long term, procedural and declarative. Mnemonic strategies
support learning for students with HID, and enhance outcomes for typical peers in regular
education classrooms as well, making them a valuable resource to scaffold learning without
unnecessarily drawing potentially negative attention to students who are struggling. Research has
shown that mnemonics are effective, evidence-based instructional devices in foreign language,
English, social studies and science.

References

Mastropieri, M. A., Emerick, K., and Scruggs, T. E. (1988). Mnemonic instruction of

science concepts. Behavioral Disorders, 14, 48-56.

Mastropieri, M. A., and Scruggs, T. E., (1989). Mnemonic social studies instruction: classroom
applications. Remedial and Special Education, 10(3), 40-46.

Scruggs, T. E., Mastropieri, M. A., Berkeley, S., and Marshak, L. (2010) Mnemonic
Strategies: Evidence-Based Practice and Practice-Based Evidence. Intervention in School and
Clinic. 46 79-86.

Web Links

LD Online Website- http://www.ldonline.org/article/5912

http://www.ict4us.com/mnemonics/
Evidence-based Practices Manual 48

Cognitive Strategy Instruction

What is it?

Effective cognitive strategy instruction is a teaching technique in which students

are taught powerful procedures that help them accomplish a variety of academic tasks. It
brings awareness to the cognitive tools that strong readers, writers and mathematicians
rely on daily. The strategies that are explicitly taught would otherwise never be
discovered by the student. There are various cognitive strategies that have been proven to
be successful for students, with each variation following a flexible framework. This
framework includes the following components: pre-skill development, review of current
strategies used, presentation and discussion of a new cognitive strategy, model and
personalization of the strategy, mastery of the strategy, performance of the task with
fading prompts, and independent performance (Harris & Pressley, 1991).

Why is it important?

As Deshler and Schumaker (1986) shared the complex nature of intervention and
academic success/failure can not be attributed to one single approach, therefore, cognitive
strategy instruction is one viable tool that should be in each special educator’s repertoire.
In order for students to successfully function within the realm of higher education and in
the workplace, they need be equipped with cognitive strategies needed to handle complex
and unfamiliar situations. Cognitive strategy instruction also strives to transition
educators from focusing specifically on teaching topics to teaching students how to think
Conley, 2008). Additionally, students with mild to moderate disabilities experience much
difficulty in academic tasks that are learned more readily by their typically developing
peers, which creates many obstacles throughout their educational career. Research
completed by Deshler and colleagues (Deshler, Alley, Warner & Schumaker, 1981;
Deshler & Lenz, 1989) has shown that cognitive learning strategies are an effective and
powerful approach for students with disabilities. These strategies encourage
independence and participation in learning, and are easy to teach and implement
(Lauterbach & Bender, 1995).

References

Conley, M.W. (2008). Cognitive strategy instruction for adolescents: What we know
about the promise, what we don’t know about the potential. Harvard Educational
Review, 78(1), 84-106.

Deshler, D.D., Alley, G.R., Warner, M.M., & Schumaker, J.B. (1981). Instructional
practices for promoting skill acquisition and generalization in severly learning disabled
adolescents. Learning Disabilities Quarterly, 4, 415-421.

Deshler, D.D., & Lenz, B.K. (1989). The strategies instruction approach. International
Journal of Learning Disability, Development and Education, 36(3), 203-224.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 49

Deshler, D.D., & Shumaker, J.B. (1986). Learning strategies: An instructional alternative
for low-achieving adolescents. Exceptional Children, 52, 583-590.

Harris, K.R., & Pressley, M. (1991). The nature of cognitive strategy instruction:
Interactive strategy construction. Exceptional Children, 57(5), 392-404.

Lauterbach, S.L., & Bender, W.N. (1995). Cognitive strategy instruction for reading
comprehension: A success for high school freshman. The High School Journal, 79(1), 58-
64.

Web Links

University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Cognitive Strategy Instruction:

http://cehs.unl.edu/csi/index.shtml

Self Regulated Strategy Instruction PPT:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqSq_RMe3Cg

ELL & Cognitive Learning Strategies:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=siNy5vXWbOY
Evidence-based Practices Manual 50

Scaffolding/Differentiated Instruction

What is it?

Scaffolding and differentiated instruction are ways of providing instruction to

students based on their learning needs (Tomlinson, 2001). Scaffolding entails cognitively
supporting learners as they progress toward a goal, gradually shifting responsibility from
the teacher to the student as the student becomes more able. Differentiated instruction
includes adaptations to curricula to meet the needs of individuals. Common criticisms of
these kinds of supports and adaptations are that students may be stigmatized by the
perception of receiving preferential treatment or that the curriculum is not rigorous
enough. An approach to differentiation that uses the same curriculum for all students is
called, differentiated curriculum enhancements (Mastropieri et al., 2006). Differentiation
occurs in small-group or peer-tutoring arrangements. Students with special learning needs
are given extra practice, increased time with materials that are less difficult, and
elaborative learning strategies. Three examples of differentiated curriculum
enhancements that have been used in science and social studies classes are fact sheets,
differentiated activities and embedded mnemonic elaboration.

Why is it important?

Teachers are likely to have students of mixed abilities present in the classes they
teach. Research demonstrates that students with high incidence disabilities achieve more
when they are given more time, engaged in relevant activities, and questioned about
information directly related to objectives. Elaboration of information and activation of
prior knowledge are also key to supporting students with learning disabilities. Adapting
instruction to allow students with learning difficulties access to the general curriculum is
critical to their success.

References

Greenwood, C. (1997). Classwide peer tutoring. Behavioral and Social Issues, 7, 53-57.

Mastropieri, M. A., Scruggs, T. E., Norland, J., Berkeley, S., McDuffie, K., Tournquist,
E. H., and Conners, N. (2006). Differentiated curriculum enhancement in inclusive
middle school science: Effects on classroom and high-stakes tests. Journal of Special
Education, 40, 130-137.

Tomlinson, C. A. (2001) How to differentiate instruction in mixed-ability classrooms.

(2nd ed.). Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Web Links

The Iris Center for Training Enhancements-

http://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/resources.html
Evidence-based Practices Manual 51

Accommodations

What is it?

Accommodations refer to the procedural elements of instruction and assessment

that do not make meaningful changes to content including, changing methods of
administration or response, or arranging alternate settings, scheduling or timing.
Reducing distractions and extending time are frequently utilized accommodations
(Pitoniak & Royer, 2001). However, research has shown that teacher recommended
accommodations do not always result in improved outcomes for students with disabilities
(Fuchs & Fuchs, 2001; Fuchs, Fuchs, Eaton, Hamlett, & Karns, 2000; Fuchs, Fuchs,
Eaton, Hamlett, Binkley, et al., 2000). Teachers have flexibility choosing
accommodations for curriculum based measurements (CBM), but less freedom with more
formal, standardized tests. It has been suggested that widespread use of Universal Design
for Learning (UDL) would limit the need for accommodations.

Why is it important?

Accommodations are designed to remove obstacles preventing students with

disabilities the ability to demonstrate their skills and knowledge accurately (Sireci, 2006).
It is important that IEPs contain accommodations that address the student’s disability,
have a history of effectiveness, remain consistent with test content and do not invalidate
tests or contradict testing procedures (S. N. Elliott et al., 2002). Because most students
are required to participate in standardized state assessments without modifications,
judicious use of accommodations can aid students with learning disabilities to
successfully complete high-stakes exams.

References

Fuchs, L. S., and Fuchs, D. (2001). Helping teachers formulate sound test
accommodation decisions for students with learning disabilities. Learning Disabilities
Research & Practice, 16, 174-181.

Fuchs, L. S., Fuchs, D. Eaton, S. B., Hamlett, C. L., and Karns, K. M. (2000).
Supplementing teacher judgments of mathematics test accommodations with objective
data sources. School Psychology Review, 29(1), 66-85.

Fuchs, L. S., Fuchs, D. Eaton, S. B., Hamlett, C. L., Binkley, E., and Crouch, R. (2000).
Using objective data sources to enhance teacher judgments about test accommodations.
Exceptional Children, 67, 67-81.

Pitoniak, M. J., and Royer, J. M. (2001). Testing accommodations for examinees with
disabilities: A review of psychometric, legal, and social policy issues. Review of
Educational Research, 71(1), 53-104.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 52

Web Links

Pearson- http://www.pearsonassessments.com
Nat’l Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities-
http://nichcy.org/schoolage/accommodations
Evidence-based Practices Manual 53

Direct/ Explicit Instruction

What is it?

Broadly defined, direct instruction is a set of pedagogical practices derived from

an empirical, behaviorally informed theoretical foundation and can encompass teacher
behaviors, classroom organization, and elements of curricular and instructional design
(Gersten, 1985). Direct instruction describes any practice where the instructor plays a
prominent role in presenting information to students. In this conception, the terms
“teacher-centered” or “teacher-led” are sometimes used interchangeably with direct
instruction and refer to any type of academic instruction that is directed by the teacher,
irrespective of the content or quality. According to Rosenshine (2008), however, direct
instruction is a multifaceted concept with direct empirical and theoretical influences.
Specifically, direct instruction represents the culmination of studies regarding effective
teaching, cognitive strategy instruction, and the Distar curriculum.

Why is it important?

Several studies have favorably compared direct instruction to other approaches.

Kavale (2007) found that direct instruction was more effective for special education
students than instruction based on individualized learning styles. As more schools adopt
systems such as RTI to prevent academic failure, remediate gaps in learning, and identify
students with LD, general educators and special educators (as well as other professionals
such as school psychologists and administrators) will need to collaborate to ensure all
children receive quality, research based instruction and intervention services that can
address the specific needs of the students. The premise of tiered intervention is that
students will receive, high-quality, evidence-based instruction in the general education
setting (Tier 1; Fuchs, Mock, Morgan & Young, 2003). If a student is not responsive to
practices and curricula that have empirically demonstrated effectiveness for the majority
of students, the student will progress through successive levels of more intensive and
individualized instruction before receiving a referral for special education services. In
such a structure, it is imperative that the Tier 1 instruction is of sufficient quality to
produce the most positive outcomes for the majority of the students.

References

Fuchs, D., Mock, D., Morgan, P.L., and Young, C. L. (2003). Responsiveness-to
intervention: Definitions, evidence, and implications for the learning disabilities
construct. Learning Disabilities Research and Practice, 18, 157-171.

Gersten, R. (1985). Direct instruction with special education students: A review of

evaluation research. The Journal of Special Education, 19(1), 41-58.

Kavale, K. A. (2007) Quantitative research synthesis: Meta-analysis of research on

meeting special needs. In Lani Florian (Ed.), Handbook of Special Education
(pp.208-223 ). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 54

Rosenshine, B. (2008). Five meanings of direct instruction. Retrieved from Center on

Innovation & Improvement
website:http://www.centerii.org/search/Resources/FiveDirectInstruct.pdf

Web Links

Nat’l Insitute for Direct Instruction- http://www.nifdi.org

Association for Diect Instruction- http://www.adihome.org

Siegfried (Zig) Engelmann & DI- http://www.zigsite.com

Evidence-based Practices Manual 55

Prompting

What is it?

A prompt is an antecedent stimulus that strives to evoke the occurrence of a

response. Prompts are typically used when naturally occurring stimuli do not produce a
desired response independently. They are also described as extra instructions, gestures, or
demonstrations that help cue a learner to display specific behavior and/or correct
responses. For example, when someone says hello, a natural response is to respond with a
corresponding greeting. However, a child with autism may not naturally reciprocate the
greeting unless a prompt is delivered. This child’s mother may prompt her child by
modeling an appropriate greeting, and then instruct her child say the same greeting.

There are several categories of prompts, with some of the most common being
verbal prompts, modeling, manual prompts (i.e., physical contact), gestural prompts,
visual cues, and textual prompts. Prompting is an essential part of behavioral therapy, but
they must be used carefully in order to be effective. The practitioner must understand
when and how to use increasing assistance, decreasing assistance, stimulus fading,
graduated guidance, and delay procedures (MacDuff, Krantz, & McClannahan, 2001).

Why is it important?

Learners with disabilities experience numerous challenges in regard to acquiring

the skills needed to live independently. Often times their repertoire of skills do not
evolve as easily as others. Research has shown that in order to develop useful skill-sets,
students with disabilities require additional practice and repetition of skills correctly.
Prompts are one way to help students develop new skills and engage in functional
responses. Prompts are a valuable tool when teaching novel and desirable behavior
(MacDuff, Krantz, & McClannahan, 2001).

Prompting also meets the criteria for being deemed an evidence-based practice as
it has more than five single-subject design studies that demonstrate its effectiveness in
language development, communication, and all academic domains. It has also been
shown effective across all three age groups (i.e., preschool, elementary, secondary).
Additonally, it has been shown useful with both typically developing individuals as well
as students with disabilities (Neitzel & Wolery, 2009).

References

Cooper, J.O., Heron, T.E., & Heward, W.L. (2007). Applied behavior analysis. (2nd ed.).
Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merrill/Pearson.

MacDuff, G. S., Krantz, P. J., & McClannahan, L. E. (2001). Prompts and prompt-
fading strategies for people with autism. In C. Maurice, G. Green, & R. M. Foxx (Eds.),
Making a difference: Behavioral intervention for autism (37- 50). Austin, TX: PRO-ED.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 56

Neitzel, J., & Wolery, M. (2009). Overview of prompting. Chapel Hill, NC: The National
Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders, Frank Porter Graham
Child Development Institute, The University of North Carolina.

Web Links

ABA Autism Training-Prompting http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDijJjKHMVQ

Prompting PP Presentation:
faculty.caldwell.edu/sreeve/ED%20556%20Prompting%20updated.ppt
Evidence-based Practices Manual 57

Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD)

What is it?

Self-Regulation Strategy Development (SRSD) is one of the approaches for

teaching writing strategies explicitly and directly. This approach combines explicit
instruction with self regulation procedures such as goal setting, self-instruction, self-
monitoring, and self-reinforcement. It has been used with students with learning
disabilities, behavioral disorders, ADHD, developmental disabilities, and Asperger
Syndrome (Graham & Harris, 2011). SRSD encompasses six strategy-acquisition stages
(e.g., develop background knowledge, discuss the strategy, model the strategy, memorize
the strategy, guided practice, and independent performance) in an attempt to teach
planning, composing, and revision strategies to students who struggle with writing. These
stages are not intended to applied in a linear format; instead educators can revisit stages if
the student needs to repeat those (Harris, Graham, Mason &Friedlander, 2008).

Why is it important?

SRSD approach requires careful planning, time, and practice in educational

settings. It has been used successfully with students and found effectiveness in (a)
teaching students strategies for planning, revising, and editing compositions, (b)
implementing peer revision strategies (MacArthur, Schwartz, & Graham, 1991) (c) using
self regulation strategies such as self-monitoring and self reinforcement.

References

Graham, S. & Harris, K.R.(2011) Writing and students with disabilities In

J.M.Kauffman& D.P. Hallahan (Eds.), Handbook of special education (pp.422-433).
New York, NY: Routledge

Harris, K.R., Graham, S., Mason, L.H. & Friedlander, B. (2008) Powerful writing
strategies for all students. Baltimore: Brookes.

MacArthur, C., Schwartz, S., & Graham, S. (1991). Effects of a reciprocal peer revision
strategy in special education classrooms, Learning Disability Research and Practice,
6.201-210.

Web Links

STAR Legacy Module on SRSD

http://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/srs/chalcycle.htm
Evidence-based Practices Manual 58

Cover, Copy and Compare

What is it?

First described as a means of increasing spelling accuracy (McGuigan, 1975;

Hansen, 1978), cover, copy, and compare (CCC) represents a simple, evidence-based
approach to the acquisition of information. CCC consists of four self-managed steps: a)
the learner studies an academic task (e.g., a math fact) and its answer, b) the learner
covers the task and provides an academic response, c) the learner compares the attempt to
the correct problem, and d) the learner repeats the CCC process for any of the problems
answered incorrectly (Skinner McLaughlin, & Logan, 1997). The final step in the process
relies on positive practice overcorrection, whereby the instructor compels the learner to
provide correct forms of an incorrect response (Cooper, Heron, & Heward, 2007).

Research provides extensive support for the use of CCC. Although the acquisition
of math facts (e.g., Skinner, Shapiro, Turco, Cole, & Brown, 1992) and spelling words
(e.g., McAuley & McLaughlin, 1992) represents the primary focus of the CCC literature,
researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of CCC across a variety of academic
tasks. For example, Skinner & Belfiore (1992) observed an immediate increase in ability
of seven students with ED to fill in a blank map of the United States after using a
modified CCC procedure. In addition, research supports the use of CCC as a tool in the
remediation of a wide range of students, including those with LD (e.g., Murphy, Hern,
Williams, & McLaughlin, 1990), ID (e.g., McLaughlin, Reiter, Mabee, & Byram, 1991),
and ED (e.g., Skinner, Bamberg, Smith, & Powell, 1993).

Why is it important?

The recent reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

(IDEA; 2004) emphasized the use evidence-based practices for students with disabilities.
A rich and extensive body or research literature supports CCC and similar explicit
instructional practices derived from behavioral theories of learning. Furthermore, the
simple, self-directed nature of CCC makes it an ideal tool for providing empirically
validated instruction to students with disabilities in inclusive settings.

References

Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2007). Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd
ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Hansen, C. L. (1978). Writing skills. In N. G. Haring, T. C. Lovitt, M. D. Eaton, & C. L.

Hansen (Eds.), The fourth R: Research in the classroom (pp.23-40). Columbus, OH:
Merrill.

McAuley, S. M., & McLaughlin, T. F. (1992). Comparison of Add-A-Word and Compu

Spell programs with low-achieving students. The Journal of Educational Research,
85(6), 362-369.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 59

McGuigan, C. A. (1975). The add-a-word spelling program (Working Paper No. 53).
Experimental Education Unit, Seattle, WA: University of Washington.
McLaughlin, T. F., Reiter, S. M., Mabee, W. S., & Byram, B. J. (1991). An analysis and
replication of the Add-A-Word spelling program with mildly handicapped middle school
students. Journal of Behavioral Education, 1(4), 413-426.

Murphy, J. F., Hern, C. L., Williams, R. L., & McLaughlin, T. F. (1990). The effects of
the copy, cover, and compare approach in increasing spelling accuracy with learning
disabled students. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 15(4), 378-386.

Skinner, C. H., Bamberg, H. W., Smith, E. S., & Powell, S. S. (1993). Cognitive cover,
copy, and compare: Subvocal responding to increase rates of accurate division
responding. Remedial and Special Education, 14(49), 49-56.

Skinner, C. H., & Belfiore, P. J. (1992). Cover, copy, and compare: Increasing geography
accuracy in students with behavior disorders. School Psychology Review, 21(1), 73-81.

Skinner, C. H., McLaughlin, T. F., & Logan, P. (1997). Cover, copy, and compare: A
self-managed academic intervention effective across skills, students, and settings. Journal
of Behavioral Education, 7(3), 295-306.

Skinner, C. H., Shapiro, E. S., Turco, T. L., Cole, C. L., & Brown, D. K. (1992). A
comparison of self- and peer-delivered feedback on multiplication performance. Journal
of School Psychology, 30(2), 101-116.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 60

Content Enhancement Routines

What is it?

Content Enhancement Routines, or CERs are one component, along with

Learning Strategies, of the Strategic Instruction Model (SIM) developed by the
University of Kansas Center for Research on Learning. CERs are a type of group
accommodation based on four key principles:
1. Content area teachers select key elements of content and adapt it for diverse
groups of learners
2. Instruction addresses group and individual needs
3. Important concepts must not be lost or “watered-down”
4. Teachers must include students in the process
Each of the routines follows the procedure: CUE, DO, REVIEW. In the “CUE” phase,
students are introduced to the graphic organizer, the important question is identified, and
expectations for student involvement are made explicit. During the “DO” stage, teachers
and students work together to strategize how best to find the answers and complete the
graphic organizer and make explicit the steps involved to independently answer a
question are explained. The purpose of REVIEW is to make sure the student is able to
summarize the process used to accomplish the learning objective.

Why is it important?

CERs are important because they have been tested and found to be effective in a
variety of secondary inclusive settings, including English, science, and social studies.
Students of low, average, and high abilities all made greater gains as compared to
controls learning through traditional lecture methods. CERs can be used in RTI in all
three Tiers.

References

Bulgren, Janis, Deshler, Donald D., Lenz, B. Keith. (2007). Engaging adolescents with
LD in higher order thinking about history concepts using integrated Content
Enhancement Routines. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 40, 121-133.

Gersten, Russell, Okolo, Cynthia M.. (2007). Teaching history—in all its splendid
messiness—to students with LD: Contemporary research. Journal of Learning
Disabilities, 40, 98 – 99.

Tralli, Rosemary, Colombo, Beverly, Deshler, Donald D., Schumaker, Jean B.. (1996).
The Strategies Intervention Model: A model for supported inclusion at the
secondary level. Remedial and Special Education, 17, 204-216.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 61

Web Links

The University of Kansas Center for Research on Learning

http://www.kucrl.org/sim/content.shtml
Evidence-based Practices Manual 62

Social Skills Instruction

What is it?

Children with disabilities show difficulties developing social interactions in their

natural environment. They do not know how to perform the social skills, thus deficits in
social competence functioning leads to problem behaviors. To remediate these deficits
and eliminate competing problem behaviors, social skills training which is designed to
develop children’s acquisition and performance in the area of social skills is used. The
purpose of this training is to enable children interact with their social environment.
During the social skills training, a trainer defines a particular social skill, gives examples
and non-examples of this skill. To teach how to perform the social skill, the techniques
such as modeling, role playing and procedures (i.e., positive reinforcement) derived from
applied behavior analysis can be used. The trainer monitors the students’ progress and
discusses situations in which the skill should be performed in order to generalize the
obtained skill (Gresham, Sugai, & Horner, 2001).

Why is it important?

Communication and social skills are interdependent, thus establishing social

interactions is crucial to develop both social and communication skills. In addition,
children with disabilities can often use problem behaviors to communicate with others.
They may not know how to express their needs and feelings. In this sense, the social skill
training can produce meaningful outcomes for displaying appropriate social behaviors.

Reference

Gresham, F. M., Sugai, G., & Horner, R. (2001) Interpreting outcomes of social skills
training for students with high risk disabilities. Exceptional Children, 67, 331-344.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 63

Token Economies

What is it?

In a token economy students are offered an explicit reward for demonstrated

behaviors. A teacher selects the behaviors to be rewarded and informs the students of the
reward system. For instance, a teacher could offer a gold coin to the first student to
answer the question (Boniecki & Moore, 2003). The student could later exchange the
coins he or she has earned for a tangible reward (i.e. a toy, points toward a grade, food).
The purpose of the token economy is to reinforce the selected behaviors.
Token economies are more effective with a younger population; however, this
method has been used in education, medicine, psychology, and a variety of other fields
(Breyer & Allen, 1975).

Why is it important?

Token economies can be a simple, but effective way of managing classroom

behavior. It can also assist in minimizing or improving disruptive behavior. It is
essential that an educator be consistent with the reward and reinforcement aspect of the
system to see prolonged benefits. A token economy may also be utilized school wide to
increase specific behaviors, like reading, across an entire school. The larger the system;
however, the more room inconsistencies. This will prevent consistent increases in the
selected behaviors.

Reference

Boniecki, K. A. & Moore, S. (2003). Breaking the silence: Using a token economy to
reinforce classroom participation. Teaching of Psychology, 30(3), 224-227.

Breyer, N. L. & Allen, G. J. (1975). Effects of implementing a token economy on

teacher attending behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 8(4), 373-380.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 64

Good Behavior Game

What is it?

The good behavior game is a group-contingency classroom management

procedure designed to reduce problem behaviors. Before implementing the teacher first
should (a) identify and operationally define up to 3 behaviors targeted for change (e.g.,
talking out, out-of-seat, aggression); (b) assigns students to one of three to four
heterogeneous teams based on behaviors both internalizing and externalizing; (c) collects
baseline data on team behavior to ensure that teams have similar base rates of behavior;
and (d) reorganizes teams if needed based on baseline data showing significant
differences in behavior between groups.

The teacher first describes the game and provides examples and nonexamples of
the behaviors. Each team may appoint a leader and assign a group name. The teacher then
tells the students that groups that receive fewer than a certain number of check marks
(e.g., 5 during a 15 minute session) may receive a predetermined reward at the end of the
activity. Throughout the activity the teacher monitors students for occurrences of the
targeted behaviors. If a student displays any one of the targeted behaviors, they earn a
check mark for their team, therefore holding the group responsible for the behavior of
each member. If all the groups exceed the determined number of checks, then the group
with the fewest marks wins the reward. Team leaders are then responsible for dispensing
awards to their team members and marking the team’s reward on a progress chart. Once
students become familiar with the game, the teacher may begin the game unannounced at
any time, thus teaching the students to consistently self-monitor their behavior.

Why is it important?

This strategy has had positive effects on a variety of developmental outcomes

including proximal decreases in disruptive behavior, increases in prosocial behavior, and
more distal outcomes such as problem behavior, drug and alcohol use in young
adulthood.

References

Tingstrom, D. H., Sterling-Turner, H.E., & Wilczynski, S.M. (2006). Good behavior
game: 1969-2002. Behavior Modification, 30(2), 225-253.
Doi: 10.1177/0145445503261165
Evidence-based Practices Manual 65

Co-Teaching
What is it?

Traditionally co-teaching has been described as a model in which a special

education teacher and a general education teacher teach together in a general education
classroom during some portion if the school day to accommodate the needs of students
with and without disabilities. Various formats of the co-teaching model exist. Friend and
Cook (1992) describe the six “traditional” approaches as: one teach and one assist, one
teach one observe, station teaching, parallel teaching, alternative teaching, and team
teaching. Within these approaches, either teacher can assume either role. To be
successful, co-teaching should be planned deliberately and implemented as a true
collaborative effort. Developing collaborative skills among co-teachers requires
professional development and support from administrators. More extensive research is
needed to define co-teaching practices and to ensure fidelity of implementation.

Why is it important?

Co-teaching, when done with fidelity can foster a community of professionals

who are working together to improve student outcomes. Co-teaching has enormous
appeal and has been widely implemented in schools across the country. While there is a
gap in the research showing evidence of its actual effectiveness on learner out comes, it is
an area of great popularity and therefore should be further examined.

References

Friend, M., & Cook, L. (1992). Interactions: Collaboration skills for school
professionals. New York: Longman.

Zigmond, N. (2006). Reading and writing in co-taught secondary school social studies
classrooms: A reality check. Reading and Writing Quarterly, 22, 249-268.

Web Links

Teacher Hub: http://www.teachhub.com/effective-co-teaching-strategies

Evidence-based Practices Manual 66

Collaborative Strategic Reading (CSR)

What is it?

Collaborative Strategic Reading (CSR) is a reading comprehension program that

uses explicit instruction, group collaborations and scaffolding. By breaking up the stages
of reading, (before, during, and after) and applying specific steps in order to proceed
from one stage to the next a “reading routine” is created. CSR places an emphasis on
small group work and teacher-assisted learning in turn. Scaffolding is used to present a
new text and teach students how to break up reading into stages. By first completing the
task in full, and then slowly allowing more student control over the assignment and less
teacher instruction. Delegating roles and responsibilities to each member of a group and
finding opportunities for all to participate (eg. Leader, Clunck expert, Gist expert,
Question expert, Encourager and Time keeper) introduces the group element of CSR.
Each role focuses on a different aspect of the text and together the group guides one
another through the clunks (difficult words or phrases) and toward comprehension.
Emphasis is put on peer-mediated learning, but also on insuring that all students’ have the
skills necessary to accomplish peer-mediated learning.

Why is it important?

CSR is a comprehensive reading program that incorporates different teaching and

learning styles. As an evidence-based practice it is a tool that has been proven to be
effective and supported by research. CSR is a tool that can be used with a magnitude of
texts and with multiple different learners in a given classroom. Scaffolding is used to
address potential LD students and give them the opportunity to learn a routine to use
when reading on their own.

References

Johnson, D. W., & Johnson, R. (1989). Cooperation and competition: Theory and
research. Edina, MN: Interaction Book Company.

Klingner, J. K., Vaughn, S., Dimino, J., Schumm, J. S., & Bryant, D. (2001).
Collaborative strategic reading: Strategies for improving comprehension. Longmont, CO:
Sopris West.

Klingner, J. K., Vaughn, S., & Schumm, J. S. (1998). Collaborative strategic reading
during social studies in heterogenous fourth grade classrooms. The Elementary School
Journal, 99, 3-22.

Web Links

STAR Legacy Module on CSR: http://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/csr/chalcycle.htm

Evidence-based Practices Manual 67

Repeated Reading

What is it?

Repeated reading requires students to read passages in connected texts or word

lists more than once. This definition emphasizes both word-level and sentence or
passage-level fluency as recommended within factors that impact fluency development.
Numerous approaches and programs emphasize repeated reading, they can be grouped by
the manner of delivery: (a) teacher directly or (b) within a peer-tutoring approach. An
example of a widely used teacher-directed program is Read Naturally (Hasbrouck, Ihnot,
& Rogers, 1999). A research-based peer-tutoring program is Classwide Peer Tutoring
(CWPT: Greenwood et al., 2001). Therrien and Kubina (2006) identified essential
intervention features in effective repeated reading interventions: (a) having students read
to an adult, (b) ensuring students were explicitly told that becoming a more fluent reader
will help them understand what they are reading, (c) establishing an explicit student
specific goal, (d) providing corrective feedback, and (e) having students repeatedly read a
passage three to four times.

Why is it important?

Repeated reading supports reading fluency development which in turn supports

reading comprehension. It improves student comprehension of texts and offers students
areas they can improve on within reading.

References

Greenwood, C. R., Arreaga-Mayer, C., Utley, C. A., Gavin, K.M., & Terry, B.J. (2001).
Class-wide peer tutoring learning management system: Applications with elementary-
level English language learners. Remedial and Special Education, 22(1), 34-47.
doi: 10.1177/074193250102200105

Hasbrouck, J. E., Ihnot, C., & Rogers, G.H. (1999). “Read Naturally”: A strategy to
increase oral reading fluency. Reading Research and Instruction, 39(1), 27-37.
Doi:10.1080/19388079909558310

Therrien, W.J. & Kubina, R. M. (2006). Development reading fluency with repeated
reading. Intervention in School and Clinic, 41(3), 156-160.

Web Links

Intervention Central: http://www.interventioncentral.org/academic-interventions/reading-

fluency/repeated-reading
Evidence-based Practices Manual 68

Read Naturally

What is it?

Read Naturally is fluency-focused program that includes teacher modeling,

repeated reading, and progress monitoring to increase reading proficiency. All of the
Read Naturally programs follow similar steps. The steps usually consist of selecting a
story, determining key words, predicting what will happen from the title and key words,
cold timing, read along, practice, quiz questions, and retell. Cold timing occurs when the
student reads through the story for the first time and is timed. This is considered a
baseline performance for the student on the new story. Read along is the teacher
modeling portion of the strategy. The teacher models correct pronunciation, expression,
and phrasing. Practice is the repeated reading component of the strategy. The student
reads through the story multiple times to improve fluency. The student times him or
herself on each practice round. The quiz questions test the student’s comprehension of
the story. For the retell, the student writes what he or she learned from the story and the
sequence of events that occurred. This component of the strategy also tests
comprehension.

Why is it important?

Read Naturally improves reading fluency in young students. It also is designed to

allow students to progress through the program at his/her desired rate. The student is not
placed under additional pressure to keep up with peers. The student also has some
independence with book selection, as well as, the number of times he or she chooses to
practice. As a self-paced program it can require additional work for teachers when all
students are at different levels within the program. However, there is a computerized
version of the program now, which minimizes the documentation component for
teachers.

Reference

Hasbrouck, J. E., Ihnot, C., & Rogers, G.H. (1999). “Read Naturally”: A strategy to
increase oral reading fluency. Reading Research and Instruction, 39(1), 27-37.
Doi:10.1080/19388079909558310

Web Links

Read Naturally Program Website: www.readnaturally.com

Evidence-based Practices Manual 69

Solve It! Cognitive Strategy Instructional Approach

What is it?

Cognitive strategy instruction (CSI) is an explicit instructional practice that gives

students a cognitive routine to follow to solve various types of word problems.
Characteristics of explicit instruction include high-levels of structure and organization
within the lessons, guided and distributed practice, modeling, frequent interaction
between students and teachers, immediate and corrective feedback, positive
reinforcement, and mastery of the skill. Solve It! is an evidence-based example of CSI
and is used to teach students with LD how to tackle word problems in mathematics,
specifically; it teaches students cognitive processes and self-regulation strategies.

Using the acronym RPV-HECC, students internally work through a word problem
in the following steps. Students first read (R) for understanding then paraphrase (P) in
their own words. Next, students draw a picture representation or visualize (V) the
problem and hypothesize (H) by developing a plan. Students are then to estimate (E) the
answer followed by actually computing (C). Finally, students check (C) to ensure their
answer is correct. Using the Solve It! strategy is useful in many classrooms because it
gives the teacher flexibility to adapt instruction based on student needs and focuses on a
variety of problem types including textbook problems, state-assessment type problems,
and real-world type problems. Students work individually, in pairs, and in groups. Solve
It! is a program that includes an instructional guide and accompanying materials,
assessments, and scripted lessons. It also comes with helpful procedures geared towards
application, maintenance, and generalization of strategies and skills. (Montague, 2003).

Why is it important?

In order to increase opportunities for careers and employment in the future,

students must be successfully achieving in mathematics today (National Mathematics
Advisory Panel, 2008). A primary goal of Solve It! is to enable students must become
efficient, effective, and independent problem solvers. According to research so far, CSI
approaches such as Solve It! show great improvements in teaching word problem solving
as well as reading comprehension and composition. (Wong, Harris, Graham, and Butler,
2003).

References

Montague, M. (2003). Solve It: A mathematical problem-solving instructional program.

Reston, VA: Exceptional Innovations.

National Mathematics Advisory Panel. (2008). Foundations for success: The final report
of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of
Education.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 70

Wong, B.Y.L., Harris, K.R., Graham, S., & Butler, D.L. (2003). Cognitive strategies
instruction research in learning disabilities. In H.L. Swanson, K.R. Harris, & S. Graham
(Eds.) Handbook of learning disabilities (pp.383-402). New York: Guilford Press.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 71

Reading Mastery

What is it?

The SRA Reading Mastery program uses direct instruction to improve decoding
skills, fluency, and comprehension. The program is highly structured instructional
approach designed to accelerate the reading ability of at-risk students. It is primarily an
elementary program that uses a phonics based approach, based on the behavioral analysis
of decoding (Wiltz & Wilson, 2005). The curriculum and materials of the program
attempt to move children toward mastery at the fastest possible pace. The instructional
approach focuses on cuing and reinforcement procedures. Each discrete component of
reading (phonics, segmentation, blending) are broken down into component parts, which
are taught in a manner described as synthetic phonics instruction (Wiltz & Wilson, 2005).

Why is it important?

The SRA Reading Mastery program offers a complete reading program for at-risk
students. It focuses on the areas of greatest weakness often found in this population and
attempts to accelerate learning at a rapid pace. The effectiveness of this approach are
mixed; however, there have been documented improvements for at-risk students in
comprehension (Wiltz & Wilson, 2005).

Reference

Wiltz, N. & Wilson, G. P. (2005). An inquiry into children’s reading in one urban school
using SRA reading mastery (direct instruction). Journal of Literacy Research, 37(4),
493-528.

Web Links

SRA Reading Mastery Website:

https://www.mheonline.com/programMHID/view/0076181936
Evidence-based Practices Manual 72

Errorless Training

What is it?

Errorless training involves manipulating the relevant and irrelevant task stimuli so
that few or no errors occur while a target response is being taught (Snell, & Brown,
2011). Mueller, Palkovik, & Maynard (2007) listed errorless teaching procedures as the
following: stimulus fading, stimulus shaping, response prevention, delayed prompting,
superimposition with stimulus fading, and superimposition with stimulus shaping. These
procedures refer to a variety of discrimination learning techniques that aim to minimize
incorrect responding (Mueller et al., 2007). All of them involve two specific rules. First,
the initial responding is easy and second, the students’ progress toward to the target
behavior is gradual (Lancioni, & Smeets, 1986).

Why is it important?

In contrast to trial-and-error training, errorless training does not allow the student
to make considerable errors while learning the target behavior. Research has shown that it
is effective in establishing discrimination. Students with severe disabilities who have
difficulty in making simple and conditional discriminations can benefit from errorless
training (Graff, & Green, 2004).

References

Graff, R. B., & Green, G. (2004). Two methods for teaching simple visual
discriminations to learners with severe disabilities. Research in Developmental
Disabilities, 25, 295-307.

Mueller, M.M., Palkovik, C.M., & Maynard, C.S. (2007). Errorless learning: review and
practical application for teaching children with pervasive developmental disorders.
Psychology in the Schools, 44, 7, 691-700.

Lancioni, G.E., & Smeets, P.M. (1986) Procedures and parameters of errorless
discrimination training with developmentally impaired individuals. In N.R. Ellis & N. W.
Bray (Eds.) International Review of Research in Mental Retardation, 135-164. New
York: Academic Press.

Snell, M. E., & Brown, F. (2011) Instruction of Students with Severe Disabilities (7th ed.)
Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Merill/Pearson.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 73

Time Delay
What is it?

Time delay is a stimulus-fading procedure in which the two stimuli are presented
concurrently; over succeeding trials, a teacher gradually delays the prompt in small
increments (e.g., 1s) or a fixed duration (e.g., 5s) (Graff, & Green, 2004). There are two
types of time delay, constant time delay and progressive time delay. In constant time
delay, the initial trials begin with providing a 0-second delay. A teacher using 0-second
delay models the correct response after providing the natural cue. Once the student
responds correctly, the student receives reinforcement for correct responding. After
several successful trials with 0-second delay, the teacher increases the time delay
between the task demand and the prompt to a predetermined length (e.g., 4 seconds)
(Snell, & Brown, 2011).

With progressive time delay, the time delay between the task request and the
prompt after the 0-second delay trials is gradually and systematically extended across
time (Demchak, 1990). The teacher may begin with a zero delay then, she/he may
increase the time delay interval up to 8 (or more) seconds, where delay remains until the
student produces the correct response (Snell, & Brown, 2011).

Why is it important?

Time delay is an effective teaching procedure for individuals with severe

disabilities who do best when they make more correct responses and few errors in
obtaining a new skill. Numerous research studies have shown time delay effective in
teaching discrete and chained behaviors across a range of students with disabilities (Snell,
& Brown, 2011). In addition, time delay is useful strategy to avoid prompt dependency
for students who might become dependent on the teacher’s prompts (Miller, & Test,
1989).

References

Demchak, M. (1990). Response prompting and fading methods: a review. American

Journal on Mental Retardation, 94, 603-615.

Graff, R. B., & Green, G. (2004). Two methods for teaching simple visual
discriminations to learners with severe disabilities. Research in Developmental
Disabilities, 25, 295-307.

Miller, U.C., & Test, D. W. (1989). A comparison of constant time delay and most-to-
least prompting in teaching laundry skills to students with moderate retardation.
Education and Training in Mental Retardation, 24, 363-370.

Snell, M. E., & Brown, F. (2011) Instruction of Students with Severe Disabilities (7th ed.)
Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Merill/Pearson.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 74

Prompting Systems
What is it?

A prompt is an antecedent stimulus used to elicit a correct response when it is

paired with the discriminative stimulus (Cooper, Heron, & Heward, 2007; Snell, &
Brown, 2011). Prompting systems including, most-to-least prompting (e.g., physical-
model-verbal), least to most intrusive (e.g., verbal-model-physical), time delay, graduated
guidance, and simultaneous prompts, provide information that lets a student how to
perform the targeted task (Copeland, & Osborn, 2013; Snell, & Brown, 2011). Prompts
can be provided by using verbal cues, gestures, modeling, and full or partial physical
assistance (i.e., response prompts) or making stimulus modifications (i.e., stimulus
prompts) (Cooper et. al., 2007).

Why is it important?

Educators use prompt systems in an attempt to reduce errors when a student

learning new skills, thus increasing the probability of a correct response. Research
supports use of prompting systems because it may help students with severe intellectual
disability obtain a range of skills including communication, vocational, behavioral,
social, and self care skills (Morse, & Schuster, 2004; Wolery, Ault, Gast, Doyle, &
Griffen, 1990).

References

Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2007). Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd
ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merill/Pearson.

Morse, T.E., & Schuster, J.W. (2004). Simultaneous prompting: a review of the literature.
Education and Training in Developmental Disabilities, 39, 153-168.

Snell, M. E., & Brown, F. (2011) Instruction of Students with Severe Disabilities (7th ed.)
Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Merill/Pearson.

Wolery, M., Ault, M. J., Gast, D. L., Doyle, P. M., & Griffen, A.K. (1990). Comparison
of constant time delay and the system of least prompts in teaching chained tasks.
Education and Training in Mental Retardation, 25, 243-257.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 75

ADDITIONAL EVIDENCED-BASED
PRACTICES
Evidence-based Practices Manual 76

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

What is it?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT is an approach to behavioral therapy that

incorporates both cognitive and behavioral tenets to address depression in children and
adolescents. By combining cognitive and behavioral theory, CBT addresses
dysfunctional thought processes while seeking to change the pattern of depressive
behaviors by teaching children to increase engagement in reinforcing activities and
promoting positive social skills. The therapist’s role is that of a teacher, providing direct
information and support to a student as he learns to monitor his thoughts and behavior.
CBT has been found to be an effective practice to intervene with students demonstrating
depression (Curry, 2001). There are a variety of types of CBT therapy. The most
common is cognitive restructuring, which teaches students to challenge their negative
view of themselves and their surroundings, replacing those thoughts with more realistic
ones. Another is problem solving, which teaches students to evaluate stressful situations
and respond to them deliberately. A third approach targets self-management, teaching
students to use self-monitoring to make self-directed changes in mood and behavior.

Why is it important?

Research shows that students experiencing depression struggle with problems in

school that impact learning, including low self-esteem, poor concentration, poor
attendance, poor academic performance, and withdrawal. Estimates of mental health
prevalence indicate that more than 30% of students will experience a significant problem
during their school careers. Importantly, recent work indicates that interventions for
depression are more effective when implemented when symptoms first emerge (Kern et.
al, 2007).

References

Curry, J.F. (2001). Specific psychotherapies for childhood and adolescent depression.
Biological Psychiatry, 49, 1091-1100.

Kern, l. & Clemens, N.H. (2007). Antecedent strategies to promote appropriate classroom
behavior. Psychology in Schools, 44, 65-75.

Web Links

National Association for Cognitive Behavioral Therapists

http://www.nacbt.org
Evidence-based Practices Manual 77

Core Intervention Model (ELL)

What is it?

The Core Intervention Model is a supplemental direct instruction in phonological

skills that has been demonstrated to be effective for use with English Language Learners
(ELL).

It was designed for use for K-2 phonological awareness, decoding, and listening
comprehension. Six principles that guide the intervention are:
 Small group setting
 Appropriate materials
 Explicit
 Rapid pace
 High rate of response
 Corrective feedback using the “staircase” approach

Example of Staircase Questioning:

Step 1: Original question – “What word rhymes with frog?”
Step 2: Yes or No questions – “Does log rhyme with frog?”
Step 3: Telling the answer – “Log rhymes with frog; what rhymes with frog?”
Step 4: Say and repeat – “Log” “Good, log rhymes with frog”.
(From Gerber et al., 2004)

Why is it important?

Latino/a students have the highest rate of school failure in the US compared to all
other ethnic groups. Latino/a students are often placed into special education without
receiving high-quality instruction or linguistically appropriate pre-referral reading
interventions. ELL students that received this reading intervention demonstrated
significant gains, with large effect sizes for phonological awareness, and moderate effect
sizes for word reading and decoding.

References

Gerber, M.M., Jimenez, T., Leafstedt, J. (2004). English reading effects of small-group
intensive intervention in Spanish for K-1 English learners. Learning Disabilities
Research and Practice, 19, 239-251.

Web Links

Vaughn Gross Center for Reading and Language Arts:

http://www.texasreading.org/utcrla/
Evidence-based Practices Manual 78

Explicit Practices, Strategic Practices, and the Use of Visual Representation to

Teach Arithmetic Combinations to Students with Specific Learning Disorders (LD)

What is it?

The current evidence base supports the following instructional practices; explicit
practices, strategic practices, and the use of visual representations, to teach arithmetic
combinations to students with LD.
Explicit Instructional Practices focus on systemically implemented behavioral practices
to teach mathematical concepts. Current literature supports the use of systematic, explicit
instruction for teaching computation to students with mathematical difficulties. This
approach is based on the behavioral theory of learning by improving instructional
behavior (correct responses per minute) by manipulating consequent events
(reinforcement for improved academic or social behavior). Explicit practices include
modeling, high rates of responding and practice, repetition, error correction, review and
distributed practice, and frequent monitoring. An example of this model used alone is the
Constant Time Delay procedure.
Strategic Instruction Practices are based on information processing theory,
focusing on how students perceive, encode, represent, store, and retrieve information. By
providing specific strategies for students to use, the practice reduces the “cognitive load”
for learning higher order math skills, promotes flexibility with numbers, and provides an
expanded knowledge base that can facilitate retention and retrieval. A model that has
demonstrated effectiveness is the Count-On strategy, paired with a cross age peer
tutoring arrangement.
Use of Visual Representations ,including manipulatives, tallies, pictures, and
number lines to promote understanding of mathematical ideas has been found to have
moderate positive effects when paired with other instructional evidence-based practices.
The concrete-representational-abstract (CRA) method used in conjunction with the
DRAW strategy is an example of pairing visual representation with strategic instruction
practices.

Why is it important?

The complexities of teaching students who have been identified as having a

mathematics LD are often frustrating and confusing for teachers. It has been suggested
that proficiency in solving arithmetic combinations is a critical skill to develop
mathematical fluency. By identifying effective, evidence-based strategies, this review
outlines specific approaches for educators to use to help students with LD become more
proficient with these foundational skills (Bryant, 2013).

References

Bryant, D. B. (2013). Instructional Practices for Improving Student Outcomes in Solving

Arithmetic Combinations. In B. &. Cook, Research-Based Practices in Special Education
(pp. 61-85). Boston: Pearson.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 79

Functional Assessment Based Intervention (FABI)

What is it?
Functional Assessment Based Interventions or FABIs are interventions based on
the reasons problem behaviors occur. It is a function-based approach used to determine
why a specific behavior is occurring. The motive for specific behavior (i.e. aggression) is
identified by conducting a functional behavioral assessment. The functional behavioral
assessment is a tool used to determine the function of a specific behavior. Once the
function of the behavior is identified, an intervention is designed to address the behavior
and its function specifically. The intervention is implemented and monitored using a
single-subject research design (i.e. reversal or multiple baseline). This is done to ensure a
functional relation is established between the intervention and the target behavior. The
intervention must be monitored for reliability, treatment integrity, social validity,
generalization and maintenance in order to draw accurate conclusions from the outcome
data. The procedure used to conduct a FABI include (a) collection of data to determine
function of behavior (b) analyze data to determine function of target behavior (c) design
intervention linked to function of behavior (d) evaluate the changes made by the
intervention to the target behavior.

Why is it important?
The FABI is important because it answers the question of “why” a child is
engaging in a specific (potentially harmful) behavior. It also allows the instructor to
design and implement an intervention that is individualized to meet the needs on one
specific student. The goal of the FABI is to design interventions that are meant to replace
undesirable behavior with safe, socially appropriate behavior.

References

Cooper, J.O., Heron, T.E., & Heward, W.L. (2007). Applied behavior analysis (2nd ed.)
Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merrill/Pearson.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 80

Milieu Teaching

What is it?

Milieu Teaching involves child-adult teaching interactions that occur during

natural, unstructured times. The teacher follows the child’s lead and it typically occurs
during child-selected situations. Within research framework of Early Childhood Special
Education, it is closely linked to the philosophical perspective of natural environment
teaching and natural learning opportunities. Milieu teaching is extremely language based
and focuses on meaning of communication instead of the child’s usage of grammatically
correct language. It occurs within a fluid and flexible structure.

When a teacher implements milieu teaching, they make a sequence of decisions

when responding to a child’s request or attempt at communication. The sequence is as
follows:
(1) Should I use this situation for milieu teaching? If yes, then:
(2) Decide what type of language behavior you want from the child and
(3) Decide the cue you want to use (a) follow child’s attentional lead or (b) follow child’s attention plus
include a verbal cue. If child does not respond to cue
(4) Decide the amount of prompting you will use (a) fullest- imitation, (b) medium- partial imitation, or (c)
minimal- terminal language behavior

Within milieu teaching there are four major teaching procedures. These basics of these
procedures are as follows:
(1) Model Procedure: Teacher notices opportunity, models response, and waits. Teacher provides prompts
and judges child’s continued interest.
(2) Mand-Model Procedure: Teacher builds on Model procedure by providing a mand (directive, “Tell me
what you want”). Teacher waits for response, provides prompts, and judges child’s continued interest.
(3) Delay Procedure: Less intrusive than Model or Mand-Model. Used for responses that a child has
acquired but does not use consistently, frequently, or independently.
(4) Incidental Teaching Procedure: Teacher uses one of the three previous procedures depending on
difficulty level of target response and interest level of child.

A variation of milieu teaching is Enhanced Milieu Teaching (EMT), which incorporates

incidental teaching, environmental arrangements (manipulating environment, materials, and
situations), and responsive interactions (adults respond in ways that encourage communication).

Why is it important?

Young children who have deficits in communication and language skills are not
only at risk for academic failure, but are also at risk for experiencing “failure” socially,
for developing dysfunctional relationships with peers and family members, and for
developing behavioral problems. There is evidence that naturalistic teaching, such as
milieu teaching, supports both the acquisition and generalization of communication and
language skills in young children (Kaiser & Hester, 1994).
Evidence-based Practices Manual 81

References

Kaiser, A. P., Hester, P.P. (1994). Generalized effects of enhanced milieu teaching.
Journal of Speech & Hearing Research. 37(6).
Evidence-based Practices Manual 82

Multi-Tier System of Supports

What is it?

Multi-Tier System of Supports (MTSS) is a conceptual framework for organizing schools

and educating students through varying levels of support. According to Sugai and Horner (2009),
MTSS is a broader term that encompasses several kinds of tiered support systems that go by
various names, such as the more academically focused Response to Intervention (RTI) (aka:
Response to Instruction). Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) or School-Wide
Positive Behavioral Support (SWPBS) are also MTSS that are more specific to addressing
behavioral issues. Although there are variations on the basic theme, MTSS models share some
common elements, including: universal screening for early identification of students who are not
responding to evidence-based instruction, multiple tiers of intervention that increase in intensity,
standardized problem solving protocols for decision-making, data collection used for adjusting
instruction, emphasis on implementation integrity, and assessments that help guide instruction
and placement (Sugai & Horner 2009).

On the Kansas MTSS website, the tiered delivery of services is graphically represented
using a pyramid labeled with “all” at the base, followed by “some” toward the top and “few” at
the pinnacle. In this all-some-few model, services are allocated to progressively fewer students at
increasingly intense and individualized levels. For example, all students receive education based
on systematic assessment and data based decision-making, an evidence-based core curriculum,
consistent discipline, and positive behavioral expectations. This level of intervention aligns with
Tier 1. Approximately 20% (some) of those students will require supplemental, targeted skills
interventions in small groups with more recurring data collection and decision-making. A few
more (5% of the second tier students) will need student-centered customized learning with more
frequent monitoring to guide instruction.

Why is it important?

There are two main goals of MTSS, namely, closing gaps in student achievement and
identifying students with learning disabilities. Sugai and Horner (2009) state that MTSS has
grown out of the requirements in No Child Left Behind (2004) and Individuals with Disabilities
Act (2004) for scientifically based instruction as a means to differentiate instruction, monitor
student achievement, and identify students with learning disabilities. Although at the secondary
educational level, the role as screening tool will be less prominent, MTSS is still an effective
method for remediating gaps in skills, and supporting students with behavioral challenges.

References

Sugai, G. and Horner, R. H. Responsiveness-to-Intervention and School-Wide Positive Behavior

Supports: Integration of Multi-Tiered System Approaches. 2009. Exceptionality. 17 223–237.

Web Links

www.ksde.org -Kansas State Department of Education

www.kansasmtss.org –Kansas Multi-Tier System of Supports

www.pbis.org –OSEP Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports and Effective
Evidence-based Practices Manual 83

School- wide Interventions

www.rti4success.org –National Center on Response to Intervention
Evidence-based Practices Manual 84

Systematic Screening for Behavioral Disorders (SSBD)

What is it?

Systematic Screening for Behavioral Disorders (SSBD) is a systematic and

comprehensive approach to identifying students who may be at risk for internalizing and
externalizing behavior disorders. It has been used across all grade levels, from
Kindergarten to high school. More verification is needed to determine its effectiveness at
the preschool level. It uses a three stage, or gate, model for screening and identifying
students who may be in need of behavior supports. The first gate involves the ranking of
all students by the classroom teacher. The teacher ranks each student in the classroom,
taking into account both external and internal behaviors. In the second gate, the teacher
completes a more detailed measure of the students who were most at risk for
externalizing and internalizing behaviors. These results are compared to a normed sample
of students. The third gate involves the observation the identified students by an outside
professional. The outside professional rates the students according to their observations.
Data from the teacher and the professional are compared and eligibility for special
education services may be considered.

A kit entitled Systematic Screening for Behavior Disorders by Hill M. Walker,

Ph.D. and Herbert H Severson, Ph.D. is available through Sopris Learning at the
Cambium Learning Store. This kit is geared towards students in Kindergarten to grade 6.
The kit includes three manuals, a training video, a CD used to help prompt observations,
and reproducible forms.

Why is it important?

There is a discrepancy between the number of students who have or are at risk for
developing behavior disorders. According to Weist, Rubin, Moore, Adelsheim, and
Gordon, (2007), between 12% and 27% of students might demonstrate external behavior
concerns or internal behavior concerns (e.g. depression or anxiety), but only one in six to
one in three students receive any type of treatment. The earlier students who are at risk
are identified the more likely it is that timely treatments and services will be provided to
the student. Early intervention is important because problem behaviors may become
difficult or impossible to manage (Davis, Young, Hardman, & Winters; 2011).

References

Davis, S.D., Young, E.L., Hardman, S., & Winters, R. (2011). Screening for emotional
and behavioral disorders. Principal Leadership. Retrieved from
http://www.nassp.org/Content/158/pl_may11_schoolpsych.pdf

Walker, H.M. & Severson, H.H., Systematic Screening for Behavior Disorders.
http://store.cambiumlearning.com/systematic-screening-for-behavior-disorders/
Evidence-based Practices Manual 85

Weist, M.D., Rubin, M., Moore, E., Adelsheim, S., & Gordon, W. (2007). Mental health
screening in schools. Journal of School Health. 77(2).
Evidence-based Practices Manual 86

Text Talk
What is it?

A program in which teachers use trade books to promote word knowledge and
meaning construction with kindergarten and first grade students. The main focus of this
program is to select “sophisticated words” from the trade books. The term “sophisticated
words” refers to words that are used by mature speakers and are found in written
language. These words (i.e. tier -2 words) are thought to be especially important for at
risk learners who would be less likely to learn them independently. In the text talk
program, word instruction takes place after a storybook reading so that the teacher can
capitalize on the story by teaching the words in a familiar context. The strategy consists
of five instructional steps for teaching a new word. First the teacher defines the word and
provides examples of how the word can be used in a sentence. Next she/he asks the
children to say the word out loud (emphasis on the phonological pronunciation of the
word). The teacher and children discuss how the word can be used in new situations
(different from the story). Next, the teacher conducts a discrimination task in which
she/he asks the students to decide what is and is not a correct example of the target word.
Finally, the children have the opportunity to share their own examples of ideas pertaining
to the target word.

Why is it important?

Text Talk is a program aimed at increasing word knowledge for children in

kindergarten and first-grade. Studies revealed that children who received direct, explicit,
and extended word instruction showed greater gains in target word knowledge than
children who did not receive this instruction. This strategy is important because it is
geared towards enriching vocabulary and word knowledge for children, particularly those
at risk. While this intervention has been shown to be effective with kindergarten and
first-grade students, the instructional steps can be adapted to suit various age ranges (i.e.
elementary, middle and/or secondary) and levels of functioning.

References

Beck, I.L., & McKeown, M.G. (2007). Increasing young low-incidence children’s oral
vocabulary repertoires through rich and focused instruction. The Elementary School
Journal, 107, 251-271.

Curtis, M.E. (1987). Vocabulary testing and vocabulary instruction. In M.G McKeown
& M.E. Curtis (Eds.), The nature of vocabulary acquisition. Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum.
Evidence-based Practices Manual 87

Visual Phonics
What is it?

Visual Phonics is a set of hand and grapheme cues that are representative of the
phonemes in spoken language. These are used for students who are deaf or hard of
hearing as a method to teach phonemic awareness. The process includes three main
procedures: 1) training teachers and other professionals how to use the system (This
training should be provided by a licensed International Communication Leaning
Institute). 2) Next professionals need to identify where they are going to apply Visual
Phonics to their current reading and spelling programs. 3) Finally, professionals need to
apply the system by incorporating it into their reading instruction.

Why is it important?

Visual Phonics is an important learning tool because it works towards the

strengths of the deaf community. Visually based instruction can help to teach deaf
students how to break down the complex pieces of words that ultimately lead to reading
comprehension.

References

Trezek, B.J., & Malmgren, K. W. (2005). The efficacy of utilizing a phonics treatment
package with middle school deaf and hard of hearing students. Journal of Deaf Studies
and Deaf Education, 10, 256-271.

Trezek, B.J., & Yang, Y. (2006). Implications of utilizing phonics-based reading

curriculum with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Journal of Deaf Studies and
Deaf Education, 11, 202-213.

Web Links

http://seethesound.org
http://www.asd-1817.org/page.cfm?p=794
Evidence-based Practices Manual 88