Everything You Need to Know About Specially Designed Instruction

Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) is the key to unlocking every student’s potential in today’s inclusive classrooms. As educators, we know that no two learners are the same, and SDI helps bridge the gap between individual needs and academic success. Whether you’re teaching students with learning disabilities or simply want to differentiate your approach, understanding how SDI works can transform your teaching. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—definitions, components, practical examples, and how to implement Specially Designed Instruction effectively.

What is Specially Designed Instruction?

Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) refers to customized teaching strategies developed specifically for students with disabilities. The goal? To enable these students to access the general curriculum while meeting their unique needs as defined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

What is specially designed instruction?

Download this fun and colorful worksheet on Specially Designed Instruction and help your students understand inclusive education in a simple way!

Unlike general teaching methods, SDI focuses on:

• Tailored content that matches individual abilities.
• Unique methodologies that fit specific learning styles.
• Flexible delivery that adapts to student environments.

Through SDI, teachers can break down barriers and ensure meaningful participation for all learners.

Key Components of Specially Designed Instruction

Implementing SDI effectively involves understanding its three core components: Content, Methodology, and Delivery of Instruction.

Key components of specially designed instruction

Download this visual worksheet to SDI components and help students and educators understand how tailored teaching makes learning accessible for all!

1. Content

Adapting the curriculum content ensures that it aligns with the student’s learning needs.

• Simplify complex ideas without losing meaning.
• Use visual aids or real-life examples to make abstract concepts more relatable.
• Focus on essential skills that align with IEP goals.

2. Methodology

Methodology is all about the teaching strategies and approaches used to deliver the content. It’s not just about lecturing—it’s about finding creative, flexible ways to present information so all students can learn.

• Apply multi-sensory techniques (visual, auditory, kinesthetic).
• Use scaffolding to build skills step-by-step.
• Incorporate collaborative learning or peer support to enhance engagement.

These strategies ensure the student’s learning style is matched with the most effective method for them to succeed.

3. Delivery of Instruction

Adjusting how instruction is delivered can make a significant difference.

• Provide small group or one-on-one instruction.
• Use assistive technology (e.g., speech-to-text tools).
• Teach in environments that reduce distractions or support focus.

The aim is to create a supportive environment where learning can happen effectively, no matter the student’s challenges.

Examples of Specially Designed Instruction

Let’s explore what Specially Designed Instruction looks like with real-world examples.

Modifications

Modifications refer to altering the curriculum expectations for a student. This means changing the what—the content or performance standards—to match the student’s abilities.

Examples of Modifications:

• Simplified Assignments: A student with a cognitive disability might complete a shortened version of a writing assignment, focusing on constructing a simple paragraph instead of a full essay.
• Alternate Grading Scale: A modified grading system may be used, focusing on effort and progress rather than grade-level mastery.
• Alternative Curriculum Goals: Instead of working on algebraic equations, a student might focus on basic arithmetic and life skills math.

Modifications ensure that students engage with content that is accessible and meaningful, even if it differs from their peers’ academic expectations.

Accommodations

Accommodations change how a student accesses learning, without altering the learning targets or expectations. These support the students in demonstrating what they know.

Examples of Accommodations:

• Extended Time: A student with processing delays may be given additional time on tests and assignments.
• Preferential Seating: A student with attention difficulties might sit close to the teacher to reduce distractions.
• Audio Books and Speech-to-Text Tools: Students with reading disabilities can listen to texts or dictate responses instead of writing.
• Visual Schedules: Providing a step-by-step visual schedule to help students with executive functioning challenges stay organized.

Accommodations help students access the general curriculum while maintaining grade-level standards.

Differentiation

Differentiation is a teaching strategy that involves adjusting instruction to meet the varied needs of students within the classroom. While differentiation is used for all students, it becomes a part of SDI when specifically designed to meet an IEP goal.

Examples of Differentiation in SDI:

• Multi-Sensory Instruction: Using visual aids, hands-on activities, and auditory supports simultaneously for students with diverse learning styles.
• Flexible Grouping: Grouping students based on skill level or learning style for specific activities, ensuring targeted instruction.
• Tiered Assignments: Offering varying levels of complexity within the same lesson. For instance, while most students analyze a text for themes, a student with SDI might identify the main idea and supporting details instead.
• Choice Boards: Allowing students to choose how they demonstrate understanding—through a drawing, a written paragraph, or an oral presentation.

Differentiation in SDI ensures that instruction meets each student’s unique learning profile, while keeping them engaged and challenged.

The Role of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in Guiding SDI

To truly understand and implement Specially Designed Instruction effectively, educators must look to Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) as the blueprint for success.

How IEPs Guide the SDI Process

IEPs are pivotal in guiding the SDI process. They serve as legal documents that outline specific educational goals and accommodations necessary for a child’s success. By ensuring that teachers have a clear roadmap tailored for each student, IEPs help implement SDI effectively.

IEPs guide the SDI process by:

• Clearly outlining the student’s unique strengths and challenges.
• Defining the specific educational goals that the student is working toward.
• Detailing the accommodations, modifications, and instructional strategies needed to help the student succeed.
• Ensuring that all educators involved in the student’s learning are aligned in their approach.

The Power of Specific Goals in IEPs

Specific goals in IEPs provide a framework for evaluating student progress and success in SDI. They allow educators to set measurable and attainable benchmarks, which in turn help in assessing the efficacy of the approaches employed.

The power of specific goals in IEPs

Download this worksheet on IEP goal setting and empower educators and parents to support student success through well-defined objectives!

• Clarity and Focus: Specific goals give teachers a clear understanding of what skills or knowledge the student needs to develop. Instead of teaching broadly, educators can focus their efforts on targeted areas.
  • Example: Instead of “improve reading,” a specific goal might state, “The student will increase reading fluency to 90 words per minute with 95% accuracy.”

• Measurable Progress: These goals include quantifiable benchmarks, allowing teachers and parents to track the student’s growth over time. This makes it easier to determine whether instructional strategies are working or need adjustment.
• Instructional Planning: With well-defined goals, teachers can plan Specially Designed Instruction that aligns precisely with what the student is aiming to achieve. This ensures that every lesson, activity, or support provided is purpose-driven.
• Student Motivation: When students understand their goals and can see their progress, it builds confidence and encourages engagement. Celebrating small wins along the way helps maintain motivation.
• Legal Compliance: Specific goals help schools comply with legal requirements under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). They demonstrate that the school is making a good-faith effort to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).

What Differentiates Specially Designed Instruction from Core Instruction or MTSS?

While core instruction aims to meet the needs of the general student population, SDI is specifically designed for students with disabilities. Unlike the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), which provides interventions at increasing levels of intensity, SDI is individualized and mandated by the student’s IEP.

What differentiates SDI from Core Instruction or MTSS?

Download this clear comparison chart to help teachers and parents distinguish between SDI, MTSS, and Core Instruction, and better support diverse learners!

In essence:

• Core Instruction: Universal teaching strategies for all students.
• MTSS: Tiered interventions for students needing additional support.
• SDI: SDI involves customizing the content, methodology, or delivery to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities as outlined in their IEPs.

How to Implement SDI in the Classroom

Bringing Specially Designed Instruction to life in your classroom means more than just understanding the concept—it requires intentional planning, collaboration, and creativity.

How to implement SDI in the classroom?

Download this easy-to-follow guide to start using SDI in your classroom today and support every learner’s success with these 6 proven steps!

1. Assessment

Start by getting to know each student’s strengths, challenges, and learning preferences. Review their IEP carefully—it holds key insights into what works best for them, including specific goals, accommodations, and supports.

2. Plan with Purpose

Design your lessons with clear objectives aligned to the student’s IEP goals. Think about how you can adapt your content, teaching methods, and delivery to support the student.

• Use visual aids, graphic organizers, or hands-on materials.
• Break tasks into manageable steps to build confidence and understanding.
• Incorporate frequent checks for understanding and adjust as needed.

3. Collaborate with a Team

You’re not alone! Work closely with special education teachers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and parents. Collaboration ensures a consistent and cohesive approach to supporting the student.

4. Use Flexible Grouping and Differentiation

Create opportunities for small-group instruction or one-on-one support. Use differentiated activities that allow students to show what they know in ways that suit their abilities.

5. Leverage Technology and Tools

Integrate assistive technology to enhance learning. Tools like speech-to-text, audiobooks, or interactive learning apps can make a big difference.

6. Monitor, Reflect, and Adjust

Keep track of the student’s progress toward their IEP goals. Use formative assessments, observations, and student feedback to see what’s working—and what’s not.

• Be ready to adapt your strategies to better meet their needs.
• Celebrate small victories to build the student’s confidence and motivation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the three components of specially designed instruction?

The three components are content, methodology, and delivery of instruction. These elements are adapted to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities.

2. What is SDI in an IEP?

SDI in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) refers to the tailored instructional strategies and supports designed to meet the unique needs of a student with a disability.

3. How is SDI different from accommodations?

While accommodations adjust how a student learns, SDI involves changes to the instruction itself to address the student’s specific learning needs. ​

4. What are some examples of specially designed instruction?

Examples include using visual aids for a student with processing difficulties, providing simplified reading materials, or offering one-on-one instruction to reinforce concepts.

The Bottom Line

In summary, specially designed instruction is an essential approach to teaching that empowers students with disabilities to realize their full potential. By adopting practices aligned with their IEPs, educators can make a significant difference in these students’ educational journeys. We encourage educators to explore and implement SDI in their classrooms to promote an inclusive environment that caters to all learners.