What Is Modifications?
Changes to what a student is expected to learn or demonstrate — altering the content, standard, or level of the curriculum itself.
Modifications are changes to the curriculum, learning expectations, or assessment standards for a student with a disability. Unlike accommodations (which change how a student accesses content), modifications change what the student is expected to learn or demonstrate.
Examples of modifications include reduced number of spelling words, simplified reading passages, alternative assignments at a lower grade level, modified grading criteria, and shortened tests with fewer or different questions. Modifications are documented in a student's IEP.
Modifications are used when a student cannot access grade-level content even with accommodations. Because modifications change the standard, they may affect the student's ability to earn a standard diploma in some states. This is an important consideration during IEP team discussions.
Related Terms
Accommodations
Changes to how a student accesses or demonstrates learning without altering the content or expectations. The standard stays the same; the path changes.
IEP (Individualized Education Program)
A legally binding document that outlines specialized instruction, goals, and services for a student with a disability under IDEA.
Differentiated Instruction
An approach to teaching that adapts content, process, product, or learning environment based on individual student needs, readiness, interests, and learning profiles.
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