Selected High Leverage Practices in Special Education

Why

Without continued exposure and opportunities to apply skills, students may lose newly acquired knowledge or fail to transfer it. Intentional instruction and review help students build fluency, independence, and flexible use of skills in daily life.

How

• Use varied examples to show how the skill works across settings or tasks.
• Incorporate review sessions into daily or weekly routines.
• Reinforce correct application of skills through praise and incentives.
• Provide structured opportunities to use the skill in real-life or novel contexts.
• Use spaced practice to revisit previously learned content over time.
• Collaborate with general educators and families to support generalization.

Resource

Why

Metacognitive strategies help students become more independent and effective learners. These strategies support attention, memory, problem-solving, and self-regulation—essential for success across content areas.

How

• Model cognitive strategies like summarizing, predicting, and questioning.
• Teach self-talk, goal-setting, and self-check strategies.
• Embed strategy instruction in academic lessons using think-alouds.
• Use checklists and reflection prompts to build self-awareness.
• Guide students in selecting and applying strategies independently.
• Reinforce strategy use through feedback and practice.

Resource

Why

Engaged students are more likely to retain what they learn and apply it effectively. Active engagement also supports motivation, reduces challenging behaviors, and fosters stronger student–teacher connections.

How

• Use a mix of response formats (e.g., response cards, think-pair-share).
• Connect lesson content to students’ interests and lived experiences.
• Use peer-assisted learning, cooperative structures, and interactive tools.
• Monitor student engagement continuously and adjust pacing or strategies as needed.
• Build a positive, supportive classroom climate.
• Provide feedback that encourages continued participation and effort.

Resource

Why

Technology can reduce barriers and increase independence for students with disabilities. When thoughtfully selected and aligned to student goals, assistive and instructional tools enhance learning opportunities and engagement.

How

• Assess student needs to determine appropriate tools and supports.
• Use the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to plan tech integration.
• Collaborate with specialists to evaluate and select evidence-based tools.
• Teach students how to use tools effectively across settings.
• Monitor and evaluate impact on student outcomes regularly.
• Advocate for ongoing training and support for tech use in classrooms.

Resource

This tip sheet highlights selected High Leverage Practices in Special Education. To explore all 22 practices across the four domains, visit the CEEDAR Center and Council for Exceptional Children’s official site