Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Early Childhood Practice Exam

During an initial special education evaluation, which information would a teacher typically provide to the evaluation team if documenting a student's current academic performance?

1. Plans to involve the family in the student's instructional program at home

2. Documentation of the student's complete developmental and medical history

3. Plans to implement a new instructional strategy with the student

4. Documentation of the strategies and modifications to instruction that have been tried with the student

The correct answer is: Documentation of the strategies and modifications to instruction that have been tried with the student

The correct answer highlights the importance of understanding a student's current academic performance within the context of their learning experience. When documenting a student's performance for a special education evaluation, it is essential to provide concrete information about the instructional strategies and modifications that have already been implemented. This documentation not only illustrates the efforts made in the teaching process but also shows how the student has responded to various interventions. Including this information helps the evaluation team determine the effectiveness of different teaching methods and modifications, guiding them in making informed decisions regarding the necessary future interventions and supports for the student. The evaluation process relies heavily on evidence of past instructional practices to assess what has worked or not worked for the student, leading to a more tailored and effective educational plan. In contrast, while plans to involve family, medical history, and new instructional strategies are certainly relevant in broader discussions about a student's support system and potential approaches, they do not serve as direct documentation of the student's current academic performance as effectively as detailing previously tried strategies and modifications.