📌 Understanding the difference between accommodations and modifications is essential for advocating for the right support in your child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). This guide explains what each means, how they affect your child’s learning, and examples of what you can request in YCDSB schools.
📌 What’s the Difference Between Accommodations & Modifications?
| Feature | Accommodations 💡 | Modifications ✏️ |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Changes how a student learns | Changes what a student learns |
| Grade-Level Expectations | Remains at grade level | May reduce grade-level expectations |
| Curriculum Changes? | No curriculum changes | Curriculum is adjusted or simplified |
| Affects Diploma Eligibility? | No impact on diploma eligibility | May affect diploma eligibility if significant |
| Example | Extra time on tests, assistive technology, quiet workspaces | Learning different math concepts from a lower grade |
📌 Accommodations help a student access the standard curriculum, while modifications change the curriculum itself.
🔹 What Are Accommodations?
Accommodations provide support to help students learn and demonstrate knowledge without lowering academic expectations.
Types of Accommodations in YCDSB
✅ Instructional Accommodations – Changes to how lessons are taught
✔ Providing step-by-step instructions
✔ Using graphic organizers or visual schedules
✔ Offering verbal or written instructions
✔ Repeating or rephrasing information
✅ Environmental Accommodations – Changes to where learning happens
✔ Preferential seating (e.g., away from distractions)
✔ Access to a quiet space for independent work
✔ Noise-canceling headphones or fidget tools
✅ Assessment Accommodations – Changes to how a student is tested
✔ Extra time for tests and assignments
✔ Allowing verbal responses instead of written answers
✔ Using assistive technology (speech-to-text, text-to-speech)
✔ Chunking tests into smaller sections
📌 Accommodations do not change the curriculum but ensure students can learn effectively.
🔹 What Are Modifications?
Modifications adjust what the student is expected to learn and lower curriculum expectations to match their ability level.
Examples of Modifications in YCDSB
✔ Reducing the number of math problems or using simpler equations
✔ Assigning books at a lower reading level
✔ Teaching alternative expectations (e.g., life skills instead of academic goals)
✔ Removing certain curriculum expectations from a subject
📌 Modifications change the curriculum and may impact high school graduation pathways.
🧐 How to Know If Your Child Needs Accommodations or Modifications?
✔ Your Child Needs Accommodations If:
• They understand the curriculum but need support (e.g., extra time, assistive tools).
• They benefit from structured guidance but can complete grade-level work.
✔ Your Child Needs Modifications If:
• They struggle to keep up with grade-level expectations, even with accommodations.
• They need curriculum changes to focus on functional skills rather than academic content.
📌 Your child can have both accommodations and modifications depending on the subject and their needs.
📋 How to Request Accommodations or Modifications in an IEP?
✔ Review the current IEP and assess whether the supports are working.
✔ Request an IEP meeting to discuss concerns with teachers and the special education team.
✔ Provide documentation (e.g., psychoeducational assessment, teacher reports).
✔ Ask for specific supports based on your child’s strengths and challenges.
✔ Monitor progress and request updates if accommodations aren’t helping.
📌 Parents are partners in the IEP process—don’t hesitate to ask for changes when needed!
📢 Final Thoughts: Advocating for the Right Support
✔ Accommodations help students succeed at grade level, while modifications adjust learning expectations.
✔ YCDSB schools must provide appropriate supports based on a child’s IEP.
✔ Parents should regularly review and update the IEP to ensure their child’s needs are met.
💬 Have questions about accommodations and modifications? Drop them in the comments!
📌 For more IEP advocacy tips, subscribe to my blog! 🚀
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 
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