Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 92%

Which of the following best describes a student with an intellectual disability?

Rationale

A fifth-grade student with an overall IQ of 70 and limited expressive communication skills.

This description accurately captures the essence of an intellectual disability, which is characterized by significantly below-average intellectual functioning and challenges in adaptive behavior, including communication skills. An IQ of 70 falls within the range typically associated with intellectual disabilities, making this choice the best representation.

A (A third-grade student who can read only second-grade words but can perform grade-level math calculations) YOUR ANSWER

This choice describes a student who may have reading difficulties but demonstrates grade-level performance in math. The ability to perform at grade level in one academic area suggests that this student does not necessarily have an intellectual disability, as their overall cognitive abilities may still be adequate.

B (A fifth-grade student with an overall IQ of 70 and limited expressive communication skills) CORRECT

This option reflects a student who meets the criteria for intellectual disability, indicated by the low IQ score and difficulties in communication. These characteristics align with diagnostic criteria and highlight challenges in both intellectual functioning and adaptive skills, making it the most accurate description in this context.

C (A fourth-grade student who has an overall IQ of 80 and struggles to think logically on academic tasks) YOUR ANSWER

While an IQ of 80 is below average, it does not fall within the range typically defined as an intellectual disability, which is generally considered to start at an IQ of around 70. Furthermore, struggles with logical thinking alone do not suffice to define an intellectual disability without the accompanying low IQ and significant adaptive challenges.

D (A first-grade student who is on grade level academically but struggles with daily living skills) YOUR ANSWER

This choice describes a student who performs academically at grade level, indicating that their intellectual functioning is likely within the average range. Struggles with daily living skills alone do not indicate an intellectual disability if academic performance is adequate, as intellectual disabilities encompass both cognitive and adaptive functioning deficits.

Conclusion

Intellectual disabilities are defined by significantly below-average intellectual functioning and adaptive challenges. The description of a fifth-grade student with an IQ of 70 and communication difficulties encapsulates these criteria effectively. Other choices may highlight various learning or adaptive challenges but do not meet the full diagnostic requirements for intellectual disability, illustrating the importance of both IQ and adaptive behavior in accurate identification.

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