I created a series of choice cards for a student’s adaptive PE time in the weight room. This particular student has low vision, is nonverbal, multiply impaired and has a heart condition. The choice cards have increased her independence in the weight room, and allowed her to engage in each activity for longer periods of time.
The student loves the weight room and her father was a professional athlete. Giving the student choices prolongs her ability to do the activities in the weight room. Her oxygen picture (which is not included here) is always located in the bottom right of the choice card. On the back of the card is a pocket to store the choice pictures. The bench picture is where she likes to sit to throw a ball and catch it.
Giving her the options to choose her activity order in the weight room has prolonged her interest. Before the card was made, she would become frustrated and noncompliant. Once the choice cards were made, she completed her reps of 10 at each station with a smile.
Giving this student control over her learning in this environment has been empowering to her. Her need for oxygen has also decreased, as her frustration has been reduced and there are no noncompliant behaviors.
