Praxis 5621
Question 1 of 5.
Based on the anecdotal notes, Ms. Richard should primarily consider
A. referring the student to an occupational therapist
B. assessing the student for a physical impairment
C. providing the student with activities to develop fine motor skills
D. observing the student's endurance on writing tasks
Explanation: The anecdotal notes all indicate challenges with fine motor skills (letter formation, handwriting, shoelace tying). The first appropriate step is for the teacher to provide targeted activities to develop these skills before considering referrals or assessments for more significant issues.
Question 2 of 5.
Which of the following is most likely to provide Martin with the academic and social supports he needs?
A. Asking Martin's parents to arrange for volunteer tutors who will provide instruction to Martin as needed to reinforce skills taught throughout the year
B. Providing extended school year services to ensure Martin retains all the valuable skills that are taught throughout the year
C. Arranging for Martin to practice skills learned throughout the school year using online interactive educational games approved by his teacher
D. Having the guidance counselor organize small groups of students to meet a couple of times over the summer to ensure Martin interacts with his peers
Explanation: Extended School Year (ESY) services are a formal provision under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for students with disabilities, like autism, who are at high risk of regression and recoupment difficulties over extended breaks. ESY is designed to maintain learned skills and is determined by the IEP team based on individual student needs, making it the most comprehensive and legally appropriate option.
Question 3 of 5.
Which of the following school support personnel is best qualified to implement an assistive technology communication board for a student and train the teachers and family to work with the student on the device?
A. Occupational therapist
B. School counselor
C. Physical therapist
D. Speech-language pathologist
Explanation: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are specifically trained in all aspects of communication, including augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices like communication boards. Their expertise lies in assessing communication needs, implementing such devices, and training others in their use to support the student's speech and language development.
Question 4 of 5.
The instructional scenario best shows the teacher's use of which of the following strategies to support student learning?
A. Mentoring
B. Modeling
C. Differentiation
D. Scaffolding
Explanation: Scaffolding is an instructional technique where a teacher provides supports for learning and gradually removes them as the student becomes more proficient. The scenario perfectly illustrates this: the teacher starts with heavy support (providing the word), then provides direct instruction, offers opportunities for guided practice, and finally reduces support to encourage independence.
Question 5 of 5.
Which of the following is the most appropriate role for the paraprofessional?
A. Working with the student one-on-one to facilitate group interactions with peers
B. Organizing functional living and learning experiences for the student
C. Assisting in delivering instruction and monitoring student progress
D. Ensuring that lesson plans are aligned to the student's specific IEP goals and objectives
Explanation: The primary role of a paraprofessional is to assist the certified teacher in implementing instruction and supporting students under the teacher's guidance. Monitoring progress is also a key supportive duty. While other choices describe tasks a teacher might do (D) or are less relevant to the stated academic needs (A, B), assisting with instruction delivery is the most direct and appropriate support for a student struggling academically.