The Difference Between Accommodations and Modifications in an IEP

For parents navigating the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process, understanding the difference between accommodations and modifications is essential. These two terms determine how your child learns and what they are expected to learn in school.

Confusing the two can lead to inappropriate support, which may impact your child’s progress, self-confidence, and future educational opportunities.

In this blog, we’ll cover:

✔ What are accommodations?

✔ What are modifications?

✔ Key differences between accommodations and modifications

✔ How to decide which one your child needs

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📌 What Are Accommodations in an IEP?

Definition of Accommodations

Accommodations are changes to how a student learns without changing what they are expected to learn. They provide extra support so that students with disabilities, learning challenges, or exceptionalities can access the regular curriculum.

Examples of Accommodations

🔹 Instructional Accommodations – Changing how material is taught

✔ Extra time on tests and assignments

✔ Using assistive technology (text-to-speech, speech-to-text)

✔ Breaking down complex instructions into smaller steps

✔ Providing visual aids or graphic organizers

🔹 Environmental Accommodations – Changing where learning happens

✔ Preferential seating (e.g., sitting at the front of the classroom)

✔ Access to a quiet work area for independent tasks

✔ Noise-canceling headphones to reduce distractions

🔹 Assessment Accommodations – Changing how students demonstrate learning

✔ Completing tests verbally instead of in writing

✔ Using multiple-choice instead of open-ended questions

✔ Providing additional breaks during tests

📌 Accommodations do not lower learning expectations; they help students access the same curriculum as their peers.

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📌 What Are Modifications in an IEP?

Definition of Modifications

Modifications are changes to what a student is expected to learn. This means the curriculum is adjusted to match the student’s ability level, often reducing the complexity of the material.

Examples of Modifications

🔹 Curriculum Modifications (For Students Working Below Grade Level)

✔ Learning simplified versions of grade-level concepts

✔ Using lower-grade reading materials instead of the standard textbook

✔ Completing fewer math problems or answering shorter essay questions

🔹 Alternative Learning Expectations

✔ Focusing on functional life skills instead of academic subjects

✔ Prioritizing social skills, emotional regulation, and daily living skills

✔ Adjusting graduation expectations (e.g., earning a certificate instead of a diploma)

📌 Modifications change the learning expectations for the student and may impact future educational pathways.

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🔍 Key Differences Between Accommodations & Modifications

Feature	Accommodations	Modifications
Changes “How” or “What” the Student Learns?	Changes “how” the student learns	Changes “what” the student learns
Grade-Level Expectations?	Keeps expectations at grade level	Lowers expectations below grade level
Impact on Curriculum?	No change to curriculum content	Simplifies curriculum content
Affects Graduation Pathway?	No impact on diploma eligibility	May affect eligibility for a diploma
Example	Extra time on tests, assistive technology	Learning easier math concepts from a lower grade

📌 Accommodations help students succeed with the same curriculum. Modifications change the curriculum itself.

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🧐 How Do You Know If Your Child Needs Accommodations or Modifications?

Your Child Likely Needs Accommodations If:

✔ They understand the material but struggle with processing speed, organization, or focus.

✔ They can learn grade-level content but need extra time or support.

✔ They require technology, step-by-step instructions, or seating adjustments.

Your Child Likely Needs Modifications If:

✔ The grade-level material is too difficult, even with accommodations.

✔ They struggle with basic reading, writing, or math and require simpler content.

✔ Their learning goals are significantly different from their peers.

📌 If your child is on an IEP, talk to their teacher to ensure they receive the right level of support.

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⚠️ Important Considerations for Parents

Does My Child’s IEP Affect Their Graduation Pathway?

✔ Accommodations do not impact graduation—students follow the standard curriculum.

✔ Modifications may affect graduation—students may work toward a certificate instead of a diploma.

Can a Student Have Both Accommodations and Modifications?

✔ Yes! Some students use accommodations in one subject and modifications in another (e.g., grade-level science with accommodations but modified math).

Can My Child Move From Modifications to Accommodations?

✔ If a student shows progress, the IEP team can adjust supports to bring them closer to grade-level learning.

📌 Always review your child’s IEP every term to ensure it meets their needs!

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📢 Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Support for Your Child

✔ Accommodations help students access grade-level learning with support.

✔ Modifications change the curriculum to fit a student’s learning level.

✔ The right choice depends on your child’s strengths, challenges, and future goals.

✔ Parents should regularly review and update the IEP with the school team.

💬 Do you have questions about accommodations or modifications? Drop them in the comments below!

📌 For more IEP and special education resources, subscribe to my blog! 🚀