RTI and Discrepancy Model for Specific Learning Disability:
RTI Model: Schools can use the RTI model to determine if a student has a specific learning disability. This involves providing targeted interventions and measuring whether the student makes sufficient progress in key areas like oral expression, reading, and math.
Severe Discrepancy Model: Schools can also use the severe discrepancy model, comparing a student’s academic achievement with their intellectual ability. A significant gap may indicate a specific learning disability.
Eligibility Criteria:
Inadequate Achievement: The student must not achieve at age or state-approved grade-level standards in one or more areas, despite receiving appropriate instruction.
Progress Monitoring: The student must show insufficient progress in response to scientific, research-based interventions.
Exclusion Factors: The underachievement must not be primarily due to other factors like visual or hearing disabilities, intellectual disability, emotional disturbance, cultural factors, or limited English proficiency.
Instruction Documentation: The student must have received appropriate instruction in general education before being assessed for special education. Documentation of assessments and progress must be available.
Observation: The student should be observed in their learning environment, including general classroom settings. For younger students or those not yet in school, observation should be in an age-appropriate environment.[1]
- 34 C.F.R. Sec. 300.309(a)(2)(i); 5 C.C.R. Sec. 3030(b)(10)(C).[↩]