A diagnosis of mental retardation means that a child
a. can't read or write at a function level
b. needs serious learning support in mental ability and behavior
c. has a mental age equal to his or her chronological age.
d. can never functional in normal society.
I'll be glad to check your answer.
Right.
But that was my wrong answer. Ms. Sue
I'm knowledgable about special education students. And a isn't a perfect answer but it sure is better than the other three answers.
What do you think the answer is?
If "a" is marked wrong, then choose "b" ... at least it's phrased positively.
Sometimes these test writers aren't the brightest of people!!
The correct answer is b. needs serious learning support in mental ability and behavior.
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand what a diagnosis of mental retardation means. Mental retardation, now referred to as intellectual disability, is a condition characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. It usually manifests before the age of 18.
Option a. suggests that a child with mental retardation cannot read or write at a functional level. While some individuals with intellectual disabilities may struggle with literacy skills, it is not a defining characteristic of the condition. Some individuals with intellectual disabilities can learn to read and write with appropriate support.
Option c. states that a child with mental retardation has a mental age equal to their chronological age. This concept of mental age is an outdated notion in the field of intellectual disability. Intelligence is now understood as a complex and multi-dimensional construct, and it is not accurately measured by a single number.
Option d. claims that a child with mental retardation can never function in normal society. This is an incorrect and stigmatizing statement. Many individuals with intellectual disabilities can lead fulfilling lives with appropriate support, education, and accommodations.
Therefore, the most accurate answer is b. A diagnosis of mental retardation suggests that a child needs serious learning support in mental ability and behavior.