An intellectual disability is a significant limitation in a student’s cognitive functioning and daily adaptive behaviours (Schalock & Luckasson, 2004; American Association on Mental Retardation, 2002).

Compared to students with learning disabilities, students with intellectual disabilities have impairments to learning that are broader and more significant:

There are many terms used to describe students with intellectual disabilities, e.g. a slower learner.

There are many techniques that can help in teaching students with mild or moderate intellectual disabilities, but most can be summarised into three general strategies as follows:
1. Give more time and practice than usual to the student.
2. Embed activities into the context of daily life or functioning where possible.
3. Include the student in both social and academic activities.