Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Definition:
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is a chronic neurological condition characterized by problems with attention, focusing and persistence and often, but not always, hyperactivity. ADD/ADHD must be diagnosed by a medical doctor, psychiatrist or licensed psychologist and sometimes medication is prescribed.
Characteristics
Classroom Skills:
- Difficulty paying attention when spoken to, inconsistent concentration.
- Has trouble listening to a lecture and taking notes at the same time.
- Is easily distracted by background noise or visual stimulation, unable to pay attention, may appear to be hurried in one-to-one meetings.
- Difficulty memorizing basic facts.
Study Skills:
- Difficulty reading or comprehending word problems.
- Compositions lack organization and development of ideas.
- Trouble sustaining attention. Restless, fidgety. Lacks attention to details.
- Forgets things, loses or leaves positions. Difficulty following instructions.
- Impatient and easily frustrated. For many students the harder they try the worse their symptoms become.
Social Skills:
- Easily overwhelmed by tasks of daily living. Poor organization and time management. Difficulty completing projects. Inconsistent work performance. Trouble maintaining an organized work area.
- Makes decisions impulsively. Difficulty delaying gratification, stimulation seeking. Makes comments without considering their impact.
Suggestions:
Many of the suggestions outlined in the section on Learning Disabilities are applicable to students with ADD.
Accommodations:
Upon determination of eligibility for services, students may be entitled to receive one or more of the following accommodations:
- Learning Strategies
- Testing Accommodations - Extended time on exams
- Note Taking Services
- FM system
- Alternate Media
- Reduced academic course loads.
