In an IEP, a teacher should adhere to ______ and ______, and ______ _______ for optimal learning.

• A. goals and accommodations; extend instruction
• B. standards and assessments; modify curriculum
• C. objectives and supports; shorten instruction
• D. routines and expectations; increase pace

Answer: (A)

In an IEP, planning centers on what the student will learn and what supports will make that learning possible. Clear goals guide progress, and accommodations remove barriers so the student can access the curriculum. Pairing those with extending instruction—offering additional time, scaffolds, adapted materials, and differentiated approaches—gives the student enough opportunity to practice and achieve those goals. This combination emphasizes both target outcomes and the means to reach them, which is essential for optimal learning.

Standards and assessments matter in education, but an IEP focuses on concrete goals and the supports that enable access to those goals, with extended instruction to ensure mastery. Focusing on shortening instruction or simply increasing pace, or on routine management and expectations without the needed supports, doesn’t align as well with providing equitable learning opportunities for a student with an IEP.