Which scenario indicates a violation of a criterion for Specific Learning Disability (SLD) eligibility?

• A. A student struggles with reading but has significantly improved after targeted small-group instruction.
• B. A student has above average mathematical reasoning but performs poorly in reading comprehension.
• C. A student has poor reading comprehension but also struggles to form meaningful friendships.
• D. A student faces severe challenges with math but has demonstrated mastery in writing.

Answer: (A)

The scenario that indicates a violation of a criterion for Specific Learning Disability (SLD) eligibility involves a situation where a student struggles with reading but has significantly improved after targeted small-group instruction. One of the key criteria for identifying a Specific Learning Disability is the degree of discrepancy between a student's potential (often measured by IQ) and their actual academic performance. Improvement in skills due to effective instruction generally suggests that the difficulty may not stem from an intrinsic learning disability but rather from a lack of appropriate teaching or support.

In this case, if the student is responding positively to interventions, it indicates that the reading struggle may not be indicative of a specific learning disability but could be a result of insufficient instruction. SLD eligibility criteria emphasize that difficulties must persist despite adequate instruction, and ongoing improvement would suggest that the student is not experiencing a disability under the SLD definition.

Other scenarios illustrate different combinations of strengths and weaknesses. For instance, a student with above average mathematical reasoning but poor reading comprehension may exhibit a specific learning disability, as there is a noticeable discrepancy in academic performance that can warrant further evaluation. Meanwhile, a student struggling in both interpersonal skills and reading may suggest a broader developmental concern rather than a specific learning disability. Lastly, a student facing severe challenges with math but