Learner Needs
/ Goals Learner Interests Age Appropriate Current Skill
Level Setting / Time
Required Proven Successful Literacy Skills Learning StylesWhen selecting a literacy activity to try with a learner with an intellectual / developmental disability, the following criteria should be considered:
Learner Needs
/ Goals
Learner Interests
Age Appropriate
Current Skill
Level
Setting / Time
Required
Proven Successful
Literacy Skills
Learning Styles
Discussion:
Learner
Needs / Goals: A learner-centred approach will work best. Activities
should focus on teaching skills in keeping with the learner’s own learning goals.
For example, if the learner would like to improve her banking skills, you can
work together on filling out deposit slips and writing cheques.
Learner Interests:
Literacy activities should centre on the interests and life experiences of learners.
Interest and relevance will keep learners motivated.
Age Appropriate:
Whenever a literacy activity is tried, it should be adult-focused. Reading materials
should be at lower skill levels, but still be meant for adults. English as a
Second Language materials or language experience stories can be used successfully.
Current
Skill Level: Literacy activities should mirror the skill level of the
learner. The activities must be challenging, yet not too difficult (to prevent
boredom and frustration).
Modified
Instruction Successful
Learning”