MEGA Cross Categorical Special Education Practice Test

Which student is likely to be placed in a more restrictive environment?

1. A ten-year-old with math difficulties

2. A fifteen-year-old with cerebral palsy

3. A seven-year-old with a language disorder

4. An eleven-year-old with oppositional defiant disorder

The correct answer is: An eleven-year-old with oppositional defiant disorder

Students who exhibit significant behavioral challenges that can disrupt the learning environment and affect both their own and their peers’ educational experiences are more likely to be placed in a more restrictive environment. In this case, the eleven-year-old with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a prime example. ODD often involves defiant, disobedient, and hostile behavior towards authority figures, which can lead to difficulties in a typical classroom setting. A more restrictive environment, such as a specialized behavioral program or an alternative school setting, is often necessary to provide the intensive support and structured environment needed to manage these behaviors and help the student succeed. This environment allows for tailored interventions and a smaller teacher-to-student ratio, which are critical in addressing behavioral issues and fostering positive social interactions. In contrast, the other students mentioned may require support but typically exhibit challenges that are not as disruptive or that can generally be accommodated in a less restrictive setting. The ten-year-old with math difficulties primarily requires academic support, while the fifteen-year-old with cerebral palsy and the seven-year-old with a language disorder might need specific therapies or modifications to enhance learning without necessitating a placement in a more restrictive environment.