Repost: Every Day Accommodations

This is a quick list of accommodations that I employ as often as possible. These are easy to implement and often require little to no extra materials. What would you add to the list?

1. American Sign Language - I use this when teaching new vocabulary and to provide visual input. ASL is its own language and should be treated as such, but it is also a great tool for muscle memory and providing a connection between various languages. 
2. Visual Schedule - Routine and expectations can be made clear using a visual schedule and labels in areas of the classroom. 
3.  Pause and Point - This is a commonly used Comprehensible Input tool. Whenever I am introducing new words, emphasising words, or repeating questions, I may pause and point to parts of the story, an image, or key words. 
4. Preferential seating - This means so may things. It isn't always proximity to the teacher or the front of the room. For some students, it can actually be proximity to the door, a friend/helpful student, the teacher's desk, or even to specific supplies. 
5. Large Print - It is very easy to print a story, test, or document in large print. 

Added 15 May 2024
Here are some more that I've added in the last school year. 

1. Frequent Check ins - Like preferential seating this can mean a lot of things. Some students prefer to write me notes while others ask to speak with me. However, when I initiate a quick check (for both SEL and academic reasons) I try to keep things simple and as undetectable as possible by other students. Some ideas can include:
   1. a hand signal - a 1-2-3 (1 meaning help) can be useful or a simple thumbs up or thumbs down.
   2. before class - I often use this check in to set expectations and goals for class. With an ESOL student who is struggling to use English we will go over some key phrases they might use during class. 
   3. Proximity - with some students, simply proximity to them can be a check in. When I do this, however, I try and check in visually with all students while they are working.