Adaptations for Success with Montessori Math

The purpose of this study was to find whether students with special needs could work independently with math if the materials were adapted and if they were provided small group lessons. I learned that there are many factors that contribute to the success of students with special needs. One of these factors was that there are many things that can help the student with special needs work independently. Through the process of observation I recognized that the most relevant factors were: 1) the student has to be ready to learn, 2) they have to understand what they are being taught, and 3) the materials that are used have to be at their level. One of the concepts that I learned working in a Montessori classroom is that if the environment is organized to meet the student's needs, the student will learn. I also learned that students with special needs have the desire to learn alongside their peers. Additionally, it is important to know what resources are available and that teachers use them to support their efforts.