What is the difference between accommodations and modifications in an IEP, and provide examples of each?

• A. Accommodations are changes in how a student learns (e.g., extended time, preferential seating); modifications alter the content or expectations (e.g., alternate curriculum).
• B. Accommodations change the content; modifications change the process.
• C. Both are the same; modifications apply to testing.
• D. Modifications apply to grading only.

Answer: (A)

In an IEP, how a student engages with and demonstrates learning is adjusted differently depending on accommodations versus modifications. Accommodations change how the student learns or shows what they know without altering the actual content or the expectations. They keep the same curriculum and goals but provide supports to access them. Examples include giving extra time on tests, seating the student where they can focus better, or allowing assistive technology or breaks to manage attention and stamina.

Modifications, in contrast, change what the student is expected to learn or demonstrate. They alter the content or the level of complexity to fit the student’s needs. Examples include using an alternate curriculum or completing fewer or differently graded tasks that still aim to show progress in the same overarching area.

So, extended time or preferential seating are accommodations because they help access the same material, while an alternate curriculum is a modification because it changes the content or expectations.