What type of assessments can help teachers understand student needs for those with ADHD?

Behavioral assessments and observations are crucial for understanding the needs of students with ADHD. These methods provide insights into a student’s behavior, attention span, and interactions in different settings, which are essential for creating effective strategies to support their learning. Observing how a student behaves in the classroom allows teachers to identify specific challenges and strengths, tailoring their approaches to meet individual needs.

In contrast, standardized tests, while important for measuring academic performance, may not accurately reflect the difficulties that students with ADHD face, such as test anxiety or distractibility. Homework completion records alone do not provide a comprehensive view of a student's capabilities or obstacles since they can be influenced by various factors, including home environment and parental support. Anecdotal notes, when used effectively, can offer valuable insights into daily performance and behavior but are not irrelevant; they can complement other assessments to build a fuller picture of the student's needs.