Suggested Modifications

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Suggested general activity modifications for including students with visual impairments in general physical education include:

Using beep or bell balls Students with visual impairments highly depend on their other senses. Beep or bell balls allows the students to use audition to orient themselves to the ball. Goalball and beep baseball require the use of a beep or bell ball to play the game, however, any other sport or activity can be modified with the use of these balls. Using brightly colored equipment Although students may have visual impairments, this does not mean that they have lost all vision. Some students still have different degrees of vision, therefore using brightly colored equipment will help the student distinguish it easier. Utilizing a sighted peer In the physical education setting, using a sighted peer to assist the student with visual limitations is extremely useful and at times may be necessary for safety precautions. Students with visual impairments can participate more fully in movement games when guided by a sighted peer.

Teach lead-up skills prior to game play It may be necessary to re-teach sport specific skills prior to competitive play. All students, with and without disabilities will benefit from this, it will allow for the physical educator to gauge individual skill level and provide extra assistance without singling anyone out. Clearly verbalizing rules of the game By doing this, all students clearly understand the rules and expectations of the game. This will allow for all students to fully participate in all activities. Check for understanding Clarifying student's roles and responsiblities is an extremely important step in teaching. This will help clarify information and allow all students to ask questions if necessary. Reference the numbers on a clock for directions In teaching any directional activity, referencing a clock for body or object placement allows for all students to understand exactly the desired position. Make sure to position students with visual impairments in the 12 o'clock position first. Use hand over hand demonstrations By using manual guidance, students have the ability to experience what the correct movement feels like. This technique also helps with spatial concepts. Hand over hand demonstrations can be used by the teacher as peers to assist the student. Modify the learning environment to accomodate everyone Other important modifications include incorporating activities that require all students to have limited vision by using blindfolds, introducing assistive devices, utilizing special instructions when necessary, keeping the equipment in the gym area in the same place to help students navigate independently, and allowing the student to determine the amount of assistance they need with each activity. Use large pictures and words on posters to demonstrate the activity Some learners have limited sight, so pictures and words and words on posters can aid in skill acquisition. Adding bright colors to the posters can aid in seeing the posters as well.

For a list of other classroom modifications, Click Here

The above suggestions will help the general physical educator create an environment where all students can participate and have the opportunity be included in many activities.

For More Information Contact: Vicki Foederer, Camp Director 4109 Elks Springs Tr. Richardson, TX 75082 Phone: 214-729-1768 Fax: 972-690-9488 Vicki22ape@sbcglobal.ne