Incorporate specific questions designed to elicit information concerning adults' learning histories during intake interviews.

Some of the more pertinent questions to ask include:

• Did you ever repeat any grades in school?
• Why did you leave school (if appropriate)?
• Were you ever given any special education assistance in the past? If so, what kind?
• How would you describe your reading abilities?
  • Are you able to sound out words that you don't know?
  • If you can read the words, are you able to understand and remember what you read?
  • Are you a fast reader?
• Can you usually understand verbal directions, or what other people say?
  • Are you able to explain yourself when speaking so that other people understand you?
• How would you describe your writing abilities?
  • Can you organize your ideas to write?
  • Do you usually put periods and commas, etc. in the right place?
  • How would you describe your spelling?
• How would you describe your ability to do math or science?
• How would you describe your social skills? Do you have difficulty making and/or keeping friends?
• Have you ever been formally assessed (one-on-one) before for any learning difficulties?
• What do you feel gives you the most difficulty when doing school or work tasks?
  • What do you find easiest to do?