Teaching Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Update 1998

Source: Anonymous. (1998). Teaching Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Update 1998. Reston, VA: ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education. [ED423633]


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Defining Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD)

Attention deficit disorder is a syndrome characterized by serious and persistent difficulties in the following three specific areas:

1. Attention span.

2. Impulse control.

3. Hyperactivity (sometimes).

ADD is a chronic disorder that can begin in infancy and extend through adulthood, having negative effects on a child's life at home, school, and within the community. It is conservatively estimated that 3 to 5 percent of our school-age population is affected by ADD.

The condition previously fell under the headings, "learning disabled," "brain damaged," "hyperkinetic," or "hyperactive." The term attention deficit disorder was introduced to describe the characteristics of these children more clearly.

Diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

According to the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., rev.) (American Psychiatric Association, 1994), to be diagnosed as having ADD/ADHD, the clinician must note the presence of at least 6 of the 9 following criteria for either Attention Span or Hyperactivity/Impulsivity.

Attention Span Criteria

Hyperactivity Criteria

Impulsivity Criteria

Establishing The Proper Environment

  1. Have students complete assignments each day. If a student is not capable of this, the teacher should help him or her.
  2. Sign the notebook daily to signify completion of homework assignments. (Parents should also sign.)
  3. Use the notebook for daily communication with parents.

Giviing Assignment

Modifying Behavior And Enhancing Self-Esteem

Providing Supervision and Discipline:

... and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., rev.) (DSM-IV-R). Washington, DC: APA.

Suggested Reading


For more information on ADD, write to: CHADD, Children with Attention Deficit Disorder, 1859 North Pine Island Road, Suite 185, Plantation, FL 33322; (305) 587-3700. Contact your local school psychologist, examiner, or personnel in charge of assessment and diagnosis in your school district for specific information and local programs.

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