Specially Designed Instruction
In practical terms, specially designed instruction (SDI) is instruction that is tailored to a particular student.
It addresses their Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals; accounts for their disability; provides modifications or adaptations to content; and encourages access to the general education curriculum.
SDI is defined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as “adapting, as appropriate to the needs of an eligible child under this part, the content, methodology, or delivery of instruction—
(i) To address the unique needs of the child that result from the child’s disability; and
(ii) To ensure access of the child to the general curriculum…”
SDI can be provided in a variety of domains (i.e. academic, behavioral, social, etc.). Although often confused, SDI is not differentiation (designing for all learners); an accommodation (providing a change in how the student obtains information, such as Braille); or a modification (adjusting the content a student is meant to access). SDI is often provided by a special education teacher in a co-taught setting.
Source: ed.gov
Life Centered Education

CEC’s online transition curriculum, Life Centered Education (LCE) is your all-in-one transition curriculum including lesson plans and assessments to promote independence. Lesson plans accessible by teachers; worksheets and assessments available to students via secure portal.
- Applicable
- Created by recognized transition experts in special education
- Content covers daily living, interpersonal, and employment skills
- Instruction includes activities, practice, and evaluations
- Appropriate for students spanning a wide range of age, ability, and interests
- LCE stores, tracks, and reports pre-post assessment
Specially Designed Instruction Observation Tool

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