NYSTCE ATAS Supporting Diverse Learners and Special Education

Question 1

A teaching assistant notices a student with a learning disability struggles to follow multi-step verbal directions. What is the BEST accommodation to provide?

Accepted Answer

Break directions into single steps and use visual cues

Answer

Repeat the full directions more loudly

Answer

Ask the student to copy directions from a peer

Answer

Send the student to the resource room for all instruction

Question 2

An IEP specifies that a student requires extended time on tests. Who is primarily responsible for ensuring this accommodation is implemented?

Accepted Answer

The classroom teacher and the teaching assistant together

Answer

The student's parents

Answer

The school principal

Answer

The state education department

Question 3

A student with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) becomes distressed during unstructured transition times. What is the MOST effective strategy for a teaching assistant to use?

Accepted Answer

Provide a visual schedule and give advance warning before transitions

Answer

Allow the student to stay in the classroom during all transitions

Answer

Assign a peer buddy to manage the student during transitions

Answer

Ignore the distress so the student learns to self-regulate

Question 4

A teaching assistant is working with an English Language Learner (ELL) who has limited English proficiency. Which strategy BEST supports comprehension during instruction?

Accepted Answer

Speak more slowly and use gestures and visual supports

Answer

Translate all instruction into the student's home language

Answer

Pair the student only with other ELL students

Answer

Reduce the student's workload significantly

Question 5

A student with ADHD has difficulty staying on task during independent work. What is the MOST appropriate role for the teaching assistant?

Accepted Answer

Use proximity, brief check-ins, and break work into smaller chunks

Answer

Complete the work for the student to keep pace with the class

Answer

Remove the student from the classroom when off-task

Answer

Report the behavior to administration each time it occurs

Question 6

Which federal law mandates that students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment?

Accepted Answer

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

Answer

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

Answer

No Child Left Behind Act

Answer

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)