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Take the Am I Special Ed Quiz and Test Your Knowledge!

Think you're ready? Dive into this special education quiz and find out!

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Daniel AmarilesUpdated Aug 28, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art school icons and question marks on golden yellow background for a special education quiz

Take this special education quiz to see where you stand on IEPs, behavior supports, and inclusion. Answer 10 quick questions and get instant feedback with simple tips, so you can spot gaps before a test or training. Want a shorter warm-up? Try this quick special needs quiz .

What does the acronym IDEA stand for in the context of special education?
International Disability Education Association
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Individuals with Disabilities Education Agency
Institute for Different Education Actions
IDEA stands for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, a federal law that ensures services to children with disabilities. Originally enacted in 1975 and reauthorized multiple times, IDEA mandates a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) for eligible students. It guides the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Which document outlines a student's unique educational goals and required supports under special education?
Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP)
504 Plan
Positive Behavior Support Plan
The IEP is a legally binding document that details a student's present levels of academic achievement, measurable goals, special education services, accommodations, and placement. It is developed annually by a multidisciplinary team, including parents and educators. The IEP ensures that the student's educational needs are met under IDEA.
What does FAPE stand for?
Fully Accommodated Personal Education
Free Appropriate Public Education
Funded Access to Public Education
Federal Aid for Public Education
FAPE stands for Free Appropriate Public Education, which guarantees that eligible children with disabilities receive special education and related services at no cost to the family. "Appropriate" means tailored to the individual's needs via an IEP. Ensuring FAPE is one of the core requirements under IDEA.
Which part of IDEA covers early intervention services for children from birth through age three?
Part C
Part D
Part B
Part A
Part C of IDEA provides Federal grants to states for early intervention services for infants and toddlers (birth through age 2) with disabilities. The goal is to address developmental delays early. Services are documented in an Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP).
What does the term 'Least Restrictive Environment' (LRE) mean?
Separating students by disability category
Placing students in the most restrictive classroom available
Educating students with disabilities alongside non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate
Allowing parents to restrict access to general education
LRE refers to the requirement under IDEA that students with disabilities should be educated with non-disabled peers as much as is appropriate for the individual. Removal to more restrictive settings should occur only if education in regular classes with aids cannot be achieved satisfactorily. It promotes inclusion and equal access.
Which category represents the most common disability under IDEA?
Specific Learning Disability
Emotional Disturbance
Autism
Speech or Language Impairment
Specific Learning Disability is the largest category under IDEA, accounting for nearly a third of all students served. SLD includes difficulties in reading, writing, or math that significantly impact academic performance. Identification requires comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team.
In special education, 'inclusion' most closely means:
Teaching all students in specialized separate schools
Integrating students with disabilities into general education classrooms with supports
Including only non-academic activities
Restricting certain subjects for students with disabilities
Inclusion emphasizes educating students with disabilities alongside their non-disabled peers with appropriate supports, accommodations, and services. It is based on LRE principles and promotes social and academic benefits. Inclusion can occur in whole or part-time general education settings.
How often must an IEP be reviewed at minimum?
Annually
Every two years
Once in elementary and once in high school
Every six months
IDEA mandates that the IEP team must review the student's IEP at least once a year to update goals, services, and placement. This annual review ensures that the plan remains appropriate and that progress is monitored. Parents and educators collaborate on revisions.
Parents must receive which notice that explains their rights under IDEA?
Financial Disclosure Notice
Prior Written Notice and Procedural Safeguards
Student Code of Conduct
Annual Performance Report
Prior Written Notice and Procedural Safeguards must be provided to parents to explain proposed actions regarding identification, evaluation, placement, or provision of FAPE. Procedural safeguards detail parents' rights under IDEA. This ensures transparency and informed decision-making.
What is an IFSP and who benefits from it?
Individual Functional Support Plan for high school students
Individual Family Service Plan for children birth to age three
Inclusion Framework Support Plan for general education
Institutional Funding Support Plan for parents
An IFSP is an Individual Family Service Plan designed under Part C of IDEA for infants and toddlers (birth to age three) with developmental delays. It focuses on family-centered early intervention services across settings. The IFSP is reviewed every six months.
What is the purpose of a due process hearing in special education?
Evaluate teacher performance
Award grants to school districts
Conduct academic assessments for IEPs
Resolve disputes between parents and schools over IDEA rights
A due process hearing is a formal legal proceeding under IDEA that allows parents and districts to resolve disagreements about identification, evaluation, placement, or provision of services. It grants both parties rights such as representation and the ability to present evidence. An impartial hearing officer oversees the process.
At what age must transition planning begin for students with IEPs?
14
12
16
18
IDEA requires that transition planning for postsecondary goals and services begin no later than the first IEP in effect when the student turns 16. Some states start at 14 for earlier planning. Transition services prepare students for adult life including education, employment, and independent living.
How does a 504 Plan differ from an IEP?
504 Plans expire yearly; IEPs do not
504 Plans provide accommodations under Section 504; IEPs deliver specialized instruction under IDEA
504 Plans are only for medical issues; IEPs are for learning disabilities
504 Plans replace report cards; IEPs replace transcripts
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act provides accommodations for students with disabilities, ensuring equal access, but does not require specialized instruction. IEPs under IDEA provide both accommodations and individualized specialized instruction. Eligibility criteria also differ between the two laws.
How often must a student be re-evaluated to determine continued eligibility for special education?
At least once every three years
Whenever the parent requests
Every year
Every five years
Under IDEA, a re-evaluation must occur at least every three years unless the parent and school agree it is unnecessary. Re-evaluations determine continued eligibility and necessary services. They involve assessments by qualified professionals.
What is the primary purpose of a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)?
Measure academic achievement levels
Identify reasons for challenging behaviors and guide intervention planning
Train teachers in behavior management
Evaluate classroom acoustics
An FBA systematically gathers information about a student's challenging behavior to identify its purpose or function. The findings inform a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) that outlines strategies to address the behavior. FBAs are required when behavior impedes learning or leads to disciplinary actions.
What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)?
A framework for flexible learning environments that can accommodate individual learning differences
A standardized curriculum for general education only
A special test given to students with disabilities
A method for seating students in a classroom
UDL is a research-based framework that guides the design of instructional goals, methods, materials, and assessments to meet the needs of all learners. It emphasizes multiple means of representation, action, expression, and engagement. UDL reduces barriers and maximizes learning for diverse students.
Which of the following is an example of a related service under IDEA?
Physical education
Home economics
Speech-language pathology
Driver's education
Related services such as speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and physical therapy are mandated under IDEA to help students benefit from special education. They support students' educational performance by addressing communication, motor, and other developmental needs. They are specified in the IEP.
Which of these is considered assistive technology?
General classroom projector
Lockers for book storage
Screen reader software for visually impaired students
Standard pencil and paper
Assistive technology includes devices and software that help students with disabilities access the curriculum, such as screen readers, communication devices, and adaptive keyboards. IDEA requires that devices and services be considered during the IEP process if they support the student's needs.
What does Response to Intervention (RTI) refer to?
A parent training workshop
A multi-tiered approach to early identification and support for students with learning needs
A special exam for students with disabilities
A behavior contract signed by students
RTI is a framework that uses multiple tiers of instruction and intervention to identify and support students who are struggling. Students' progress is closely monitored, and interventions intensify for non-responders. It can inform special education referral decisions.
Which professionals are typically part of a multidisciplinary team for special education evaluations?
Peer tutor and athletic coach
Teacher, school psychologist, speech pathologist, parent
Only the special education teacher
Principal, bus driver, cafeteria staff, student
A multidisciplinary evaluation team under IDEA includes qualified professionals such as general and special education teachers, school psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and the child's parents. This diversity ensures comprehensive assessment of academic, social, and functional needs. Collaboration supports accurate eligibility decisions.
Under IDEA, how is eligibility for the autism category determined?
By parent request only
If the student has any speech delay
Based on a comprehensive evaluation showing characteristic social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors
Automatically for all students with ADHD
Eligibility for autism under IDEA requires a comprehensive evaluation that documents persistent deficits in social communication and interaction, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior. The evaluation must use multiple sources, including observations and standardized assessments. It ensures accurate classification and appropriate services.
What is the primary role of a special education teacher in inclusion settings?
Discipline students with disabilities
Grade all general education assignments
Replace the general education teacher
Collaborate with general educators and provide individualized instruction and supports
In inclusive settings, special education teachers collaborate with general educators to modify curriculum, implement accommodations, and deliver specialized instruction as outlined in the IEP. They also monitor progress and adjust strategies to meet diverse needs. Team teaching promotes effective inclusion.
What are 'tiers' in a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS)?
Categories of disabilities
Levels of intervention intensity ranging from universal to targeted to intensive
Classroom seating arrangements
Steps for writing IEP goals
MTSS uses a tiered approach where Tier 1 provides research-based core instruction for all students, Tier 2 offers targeted small-group interventions, and Tier 3 delivers intensive individualized support. Progress monitoring informs movement between tiers. It integrates academic and behavioral practices.
What does the discrepancy model refer to in identifying a Specific Learning Disability (SLD)?
Comparing current performance to past performance
Assessing behavioral versus academic skills
Measuring difference between two students' grades
Comparing a student's intellectual ability to their academic achievement
The discrepancy model identifies SLD by comparing cognitive ability (IQ) to academic achievement; a significant gap indicates a learning disability. Although commonly used, many schools now supplement or replace it with response-to-intervention data. IDEA allows states to choose their criteria.
What does ESY stand for, and why is it provided?
Extended School Year to prevent regression during breaks
Enhanced Support for Youth for special camps
Early Services for Youth collaboration
Educational Summer Youth program for all students
Extended School Year (ESY) services are special education and related services provided beyond the regular school year at no cost, to prevent significant regression among eligible students. Eligibility is based on IEP team determinations considering data on regression and recoupment. ESY ensures continuity of learning.
When must a manifestation determination review occur?
After a student completes summer school
Only when parents request an IEP meeting
Within 10 school days of any proposed change in placement due to disciplinary action
At the start of each school year
IDEA requires a manifestation determination review within 10 school days whenever a school proposes to change a student's placement due to disciplinary actions resulting in removal for more than 10 consecutive days. The review determines if the behavior was a manifestation of the disability. It protects students' IDEA rights.
What are 'supplementary aids and services' in an IEP?
Supports provided in general education to enable students to be educated with non-disabled peers
Tutoring for students without disabilities
Financial assistance for families
Standardized tests accommodations
Supplementary aids and services refer to aids, supports, and services provided in general education classrooms to enable students with disabilities to be educated alongside peers. Examples include note-taking assistance, visual supports, and adapted materials. They uphold the LRE principle.
Which prong in the IDEA eligibility criteria addresses whether a disability adversely affects educational performance?
Prong 1
Prong 3
Prong 4
Prong 2
IDEA's three-prong eligibility test includes: Prong 1 - presence of a disability, Prong 2 - adverse effect on educational performance, and Prong 3 - need for specially designed instruction. Prong 2 ensures the disability impacts academic or functional performance.
What information is included in the 'Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance' section of an IEP?
Future career goals
A student's current academic and functional strengths and needs based on assessments and observations
Parent's employment history
A list of school rules
The Present Levels section describes how the student's disability affects involvement and progress in the general curriculum. It includes data from standardized tests, observations, and teacher reports to identify strengths and needs. This baseline informs goal-setting and services.
How is Extended School Year (ESY) eligibility determined when a student shows significant regression and slow recoupment after breaks?
Provided only if the student has an autism diagnosis
Based solely on parent request without data review
Automatically granted if the student fails a class
IEP team reviews data on regression and recoupment to decide ESY services
ESY eligibility is based on IEP team determination using data demonstrating that the student would regress significantly and require substantial time to recoup skills. The team considers regression/recoupment patterns, severity of disability, and critical life skills. Decisions are individualized and data-driven.
Under IDEA, what is the maximum time frame for a school district to conduct an initial evaluation after receiving parental consent?
45 business days
90 instructional days
30 school days
60 calendar days in most states
IDEA requires an initial evaluation to be completed within 60 days of receiving parental consent in most states, although states may set shorter timelines. This ensures timely identification and services. The evaluation must cover all suspected areas of disability.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand Key IEP Components -

    You will recognize the main sections of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), including goals, accommodations, and progress monitoring, to understand how they support individualized learning.

  2. Identify Effective Inclusion Strategies -

    You will be able to list and describe classroom approaches that promote inclusive practices for students with diverse learning needs.

  3. Analyze Classroom Support Techniques -

    You will evaluate different support methods - such as differentiated instruction and assistive technology - and their impact on student engagement and success.

  4. Recall Special Education Terminology -

    You will strengthen your grasp of essential terms and acronyms commonly used in special education, enhancing your professional vocabulary.

  5. Evaluate Individualized Learning Needs -

    You will assess how to match instructional strategies and resources to specific learner profiles based on quiz scenarios.

  6. Apply Special Education Legal Principles -

    You will apply knowledge of laws and regulations governing special education to hypothetical situations, reinforcing your understanding of compliance requirements.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Understanding Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) -

    An IEP is a legally binding document under IDEA that outlines a student's Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) and Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). Remember the mnemonic "FAPE = Free Appropriate Public Education" to recall its core guarantee. Reviewing sample IEP goals and accommodations (source: U.S. Department of Education) will help you ace questions on this special education quiz.

  2. IDEA's 13 Disability Categories -

    IDEA recognizes 13 disability categories, from Specific Learning Disability (SLD) to Emotional Disturbance (ED) and Other Health Impairment (OHI). Use the acronym "SAPAS A MEALS" (Speech, Autism, Physical, Autism, SLD, A - Account for multiple letters) to jog your memory. University-based overviews (e.g., Wrightslaw) provide clear definitions that will boost your confidence on the am I special ed quiz.

  3. Section 504 vs. IDEA -

    Section 504 offers broad anti”discrimination protections, while IDEA provides specialized instruction and services. A quick Venn diagram noting "504 for access, IDEA for services" helps you differentiate the two. Reviewing resources from the National Center for Learning Disabilities clarifies eligibility distinctions for this special education test.

  4. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Principles -

    UDL emphasizes multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement to support diverse learners in any classroom. Recall the 3 "R's" of UDL - Represent, Respond, Reach - to guide inclusion strategies. CAST research (the creators of UDL) offers practical examples perfect for sharpening skills in your special ed trivia quiz.

  5. Assistive Technology and Supports -

    Assistive Technology (AT) ranges from low”tech tools like graphic organizers to high”tech solutions like text”to”speech software. Remember "AT = Access Tools" to connect technology with independence. Official guidelines from Understood.org demonstrate how AT enhances learning, a concept often tested in special education quizzes.

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