WEST-E Special Education Practice Test

Which intervention strategy is used before a student is evaluated for special education?

1. Referral

2. Pre-Referral Interventions

3. Eligibility Determination

4. Individualized Education Plan

The correct answer is: Pre-Referral Interventions

The choice of pre-referral interventions is correct because this strategy involves implementing various support measures and teaching modifications prior to a formal evaluation for special education eligibility. These interventions aim to address the student's needs within the general education environment and provide additional support to help improve their academic performance or behavioral issues. Before a student is referred for special education evaluation, school personnel often try various classroom strategies and interventions to determine if the student can be successful with additional support. This can include changes in teaching strategies, instructional materials, or classroom environments. By doing this, educators can gather valuable data on the student's progress and responsiveness to different approaches, which may assist in making more informed decisions regarding the need for special education services. The other options represent different stages in the special education process but are not appropriate as an answer to the question regarding interventions used before a student is evaluated for special education. Referral is the process of identifying a student in need, eligibility determination refers to the process of assessing whether a student qualifies for special education services, and an individualized education plan (IEP) outlines specific educational goals and services for students who have been determined to be eligible for special education.