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Psy 345 Assignment

This document outlines an assignment to write a persuasive argument for placing a student named Alex in either a general education classroom or special education classroom. It provides background on Alex's diagnosis of autism and academic and behavioral struggles. The paper must use a real case study to argue whether inclusion in general education with occasional support or more intensive support in a special education class would be best for that individual student. It describes the required structure of an introduction stating the controversy and thesis, a case study section, an analysis section addressing the student's needs and counterarguments, and a conclusion.

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198 views2 pages

Psy 345 Assignment

This document outlines an assignment to write a persuasive argument for placing a student named Alex in either a general education classroom or special education classroom. It provides background on Alex's diagnosis of autism and academic and behavioral struggles. The paper must use a real case study to argue whether inclusion in general education with occasional support or more intensive support in a special education class would be best for that individual student. It describes the required structure of an introduction stating the controversy and thesis, a case study section, an analysis section addressing the student's needs and counterarguments, and a conclusion.

Uploaded by

Geoffrey
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

PSY345H5F

Exceptionality: Disability and Giftedness


Assignment
Consider the following case: “Alex” is a seven year-old grade two boy who was
diagnosed with Autism when he was three. He was fully included in a general
education classroom in grade one but is currently showing considerable difficulty
learning how to read and write, and has mild behavioural problems. He is
extremely sensitive to teasing and as a result gets into lots of fights. You are his
teacher and have to recommend what to do next with Alex at an IPRC
(Identification, Placement, and Review Committee) or IEP meeting. He can either
stay in the general education classroom and receive occasional in-class support
from an educational resource worker, or he can be sent to a special education
classroom where he will receive more intensive support. There are pros and cons
associated with each option. In fact the pros of one option are often the cons of
the other (e.g., inclusion will take place in the general education class and thus
encourage socialization with nondisabled peers but will not afford the
individualized attention and support found in the special education class). While
there is published empirical research that describes success rates for kids such as
Alex in different programs, Autism is a broad spectrum disorder and no two kids
are alike. The decision must be made based on what is best for Alex.

Parents, teachers, and other professionals in the field face such decisions all the
time. These decisions are difficult, controversial and have no right or wrong
answers. The purpose of this paper is for you to put yourself in the position of the
teacher and write a persuasive, evidenced-based argument, as to why one
educational or treatment option should be chosen over another - for a particular
individual who has a disability. Your argument MUST be based on an analysis
of a real-life example/case study you provide.

Structure of assignment:

Format:

10 pages (excluding title page and references, double spaced, typed).

Introduction: 

Introduce and clearly state the controversial issue indicating its
importance or relevance (e.g., “Should children with Autism be placed in general,
or in special education classes”). Clearly identify both sides of the controversy
(i.e., the pros and cons). Make a clear “Thesis Statement” in the end of this
section (e.g., “This paper will argue that, in the case of Alex, a 7-year-old boy
diagnosed with Autism, it is in his best interest to be placed in a special education
classroom.”)

Example/ Case Study:

 Present an actual event or situation exemplifying the


issue in question, the relevant demographics, disability, treatment and educational
history, and clear narrative(s) that support your thesis statement (e.g., describe
Alex’ case). Note: Thesis should be derived based on the case and NOT the
other way around!

Insight and Analysis:

This is a 3-part section:

1. Provide your own insight (e.g., explain why Alex should be placed in a special
education classroom).

2. Present alternative points of view (e.g., Alex should stay in the general
education classroom instead)

3. Discredit counterarguments and show how your thesis is the better option and is
more conducive to Alex’s particular situation. Finally, relate your insight to
published theoretical and empirical knowledge in the field. Suggest ways to
rectify and improve situation.

Remember to keep your arguments specific to your individual. Don’t argue too
generally.

Summary and Conclusion:

Your final section should provide a brief summary of above sections and state
your conclusions.

References

Appendices (optional)

Important points:

• You MAY NOT pick an issue that can be settled using empirical research.

• You MAY NOT submit a research paper.

• You MAY NOT submit a paper without an example/ case study.

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