Section 1

Defining Learning Disabilities

This section provides a common understanding of what learning disabilities are in general. It provides a foundation for the other sections and introduces tutors to the subject.

Activity A

Definition puzzle

Learning disabilities are a puzzling topic and so some definitions are introduced in the form of a puzzle. This is a hands-on activity.

Small group activity

Materials and equipment

Handout 10.1: Learning Disabilities Definitions Puzzle (2 pages)
Envelopes

Preparation

Copy enough of the handouts for each group of two to four tutors to have one. Cut apart the puzzle on the lines. Mix up the pieces for each puzzle and put each puzzle in a separate unlabelled envelope. Don’t put the title of the handout in the envelope. Keep one puzzle intact to show at the end of the activity. Note: Be sure to cut up a copy of the handout so that you can use the original again next time.

STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS

  1. Introduce the unit. Say that learning disabilities can be very puzzling. Then give the cut-apart puzzles to each group of two to four tutors. Ask them to put the puzzle together. If they ask you what it is about, tell them, but don’t volunteer the information.
  2. Don’t tell them what the shape of the puzzle is for a while. Ask them to try the puzzle for two minutes before you give this clue.
  3. Allow up to four minutes for the activity and then show the correct finished puzzle.