Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam 2026 - Free Special Education Practice Questions and Study Guide

Using differentiated instruction tailored to individual needs is the most appropriate intervention for a student with mild intellectual disabilities because it acknowledges the unique learning profiles and challenges that these students may present. Differentiated instruction involves modifying teaching strategies, materials, and assessments to align with each student's strengths, interests, and learning pace. This approach allows educators to provide targeted support that can help enhance understanding and engagement, fostering a more inclusive and effective learning environment.

By focusing on the individual needs of students, differentiated instruction promotes skill mastery at a comfortable pace, paving the way for academic success and greater confidence. This strategy is based on the understanding that students with mild intellectual disabilities may require instruction presented in various formats, additional scaffolding, and opportunities for practice and application that differ from their typically developing peers.

Relying solely on traditional instruction methods would not account for the diverse needs of these learners, which could hinder their academic progress. Avoiding any form of assessment would deprive educators of vital information regarding a student's understanding and progress, making it challenging to tailor interventions effectively. Strictly enforcing advanced curriculum content may overwhelm students who require foundational skill development, resulting in frustration and disengagement. Therefore, differentiated instruction stands out as it directly supports the individualized learning needs of students with mild intellectual disabilities