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IEP Present Levels of Performance - What is your child ABLE to do?
Definition(s):
Present means - Current, happening
now, at this moment.
Level - (according to WordNet Dictionary on Vortex.com) - A position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality; 'a moderate degree of intelligence'; 'a high level of care is required'; 'it is all a matter of degree'."
Performance - (according to Webster's 1913 Dictionary on Vortex.com) - "That which is performed or accomplished; a thing done or carried through; an achievement; a deed; an act; a feat."
From the
definition of "performance", there is a notibly positive
point of view towards accomplishment. A child's PLOP statement should
be phrased positively and focus on strengths. It
is important to cover strengths so the best way to teach the child
becomes evident.. And remember, EVERY child HAS strengths!
The Present
Level of Performance (PLOP) statement gives clear, objective information
about a child's abilities and limitations. The PLOP defines how
abilities and limitations affect his ability to progress in the
general classroom curriculum.
- When considering the contents of the IEP, it is good to consider the best approach to IEP meetings as well. At the beginning of the process, a parent is often confused about how to proceed. This article, "Ten Common Mistakes Parents Make During the IEP Meeting", by KIDS TOGETHER, Inc. is an excellent overview of what to do and not to do. The time it will take you to read the article will save you hours of stress and strain in the future!
- To prepare for your child's next IEP meeting, begin by thinking about your child's strengths. Take time now to make yourself a "Special Education Notebook" to track and plan your child's education.
The notebook can be a simple 3-ring binder with tabbed dividers for each section of the IEP. In the PLOP section, list your child's strengths and list his learning style.
A fun way to help determine your child's learning style, is to use this Parent Center Cool Tool: What's Your Child's Learning Style?. It is a question/answer tool where you answer questions about your child's likes and dislikes. The information is tabulated to reveal your child's primary learning style. I highly recommend taking the extra time to complete this inventory so you will know how your child can best be reached. It is geared towards younger children, but is viable for most kids if you select "3rd Grade". Have fun!
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