Students who access the Virginia Essentialized Standards of Learning (VESOL) benefit from science instruction that is active, engaging, sensory-rich, and accessible. For students with intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities, complex communication needs, and multiple disabilities, science learning should include meaningful opportunities to explore, observe, communicate, experiment, and participate.
The activities below include accessibility ideas to support participation for all learners. Each activity also includes examples of Virginia Essentialized Standards of Learning (VESOL) science standards and grade bands that may be addressed. The VESOL are designed to make science instruction more accessible while maintaining meaningful academic expectations for students participating in the Virginia Alternate Assessment Program (VAAP).
1. Sink or Float Exploration
Students predict whether classroom objects will sink or float and then test each item in water. Learners compare objects, observe outcomes, and communicate predictions and results. Use a sink, tabletop duck pond, or large bin.
Accessibility Ideas
- Use large, easy-to-grasp objects
- Provide communication supports for “sink” and “float” responses
- Position tubs at wheelchair-accessible heights
- Allow students with limited motor control to activate adapted pouring devices
- Add tactile objects with varied textures for sensory exploration
VESOL Science Standards Addressed
- Grade 3–5 VESOL science standards related to:
- Properties of matter
- Scientific investigation
- Comparing physical characteristics
- Observation and classification
- Examples include standards aligned to force, matter, and object properties in elementary science.
2. Weather Reporter Station
Students observe and record daily weather conditions including temperature, clouds, wind, precipitation, and seasonal changes. Students can participate in creating classroom weather forecasts.
Accessibility Ideas
- Use tactile weather text and images
- Incorporate large visual schedules and calendars
- Use switch-activated talking thermometers
- Provide adapted writing tools or digital recording options
- Allow students to participate through gestures, AAC, or partner-assisted scanning
VESOL Science Standards Addressed
- Grade 3–5 VESOL science standards related to:
- Weather patterns
- Seasonal changes
- Earth science observations
- Data collection and interpretation
- Supports elementary Earth science concepts included in the VESOL framework.
3. Ecosystem Sensory Bins
Students explore sensory bins representing habitats such as oceans, forests, deserts, or ponds while learning about plants, animals, and environments.
Accessibility Ideas
- Include tactile objects and sensory materials
- Use adapted scoops and tools
- Position bins for wheelchair accessibility
- Add recorded animal sounds
- Incorporate scent-based elements when appropriate
VESOL Science Standards Addressed
- Grade 3–8 VESOL science standards related to:
- Ecosystems and habitats
- Animal adaptations
- Environmental interactions
- Living systems
- Aligns with elementary and middle school life science standards.
4. Baking Soda & Vinegar Reactions
Students combine baking soda and vinegar to observe bubbling reactions and describe physical changes using sensory observations and scientific vocabulary.
Accessibility Ideas
- Use adapted measuring cups and scoopers
- Provide switch-adapted pouring devices
- Use transparent containers for visual access
- Offer tactile and auditory exploration opportunities
VESOL Science Standards Addressed
- Grade 5 and middle school VESOL science standards related to:
- Physical and chemical changes
- Scientific investigation
- Observation skills
- Properties of matter
- Supports inquiry and matter-related standards in the VESOL science framework.
5. Chemical Reaction Cooking Lab
Students prepare simple recipes such as popcorn, pancakes, or slime while observing chemical and physical changes.
Accessibility Ideas
- Use adapted kitchen tools
- Provide switch-adapted mixers or blenders
- Offer tactile and sensory exploration opportunities
- Position cooking materials for wheelchair accessibility
VESOL Science Standards Addressed
- High school VESOL science standards related to:
- Chemical reactions
- Physical and chemical changes
- Matter
- Observation and experimentation
- Supports introductory chemistry instruction.
6. Force and Motion Ramp Challenge
Students roll toy cars or balls down ramps with different heights and surfaces to explore speed, distance, and movement.
Accessibility Ideas
- Use adapted release switches
- Secure ramps to prevent movement
- Use large ramps and oversized objects for easier access
- Allow students to indicate predictions using AAC systems
VESOL Science Standards Addressed
- Grade 3–5 and middle school VESOL science standards related to:
- Force and motion
- Pushes and pulls
- Speed and direction
- Data collection
- Supports physical science standards within the VESOL framework.
7. DNA Candy Models
Students build simple DNA models using candy, beads, pool noodles, or craft materials while learning about inherited traits and genetic information.
Accessibility Ideas
- Use oversized materials for students with physical disabilities
- Provide tactile DNA templates
- Use color-coded supports
- Incorporate switch-accessible digital DNA activities
- Use Velcro pieces for easier manipulation
High School VESOL Standards Addressed
- Biology VESOL concepts related to:
- DNA structure
- Inherited traits
- Genetics
- Cell processes
- Aligns with high school biology and genetics content.
8. Moon Phases with Cookies
Students model moon phases using sandwich cookies while learning sequencing and Earth-space science concepts.
Accessibility Ideas
- Use enlarged visual supports
- Provide adapted utensils or physical assistance
- Offer nonfood tactile moon models if needed
- Use switch-accessible sequencing activities
- Include audio descriptions and tactile graphics
- Allow students to communicate choices through eye gaze or AAC
VESOL Science Standards Addressed
- Grade 5 and middle school VESOL science standards related to:
- Moon phases
- Patterns in space
- Sequencing and observation
- Earth and space science
- Supports Earth science-related VESOL concepts.
Why Accessible Science Instruction Matters
Students with intellectual and physical disabilities deserve rigorous, engaging, and meaningful science instruction. The Virginia Essentialized Standards of Learning were specifically designed to provide accessible academic content for students with significant cognitive disabilities while maintaining high expectations.
Effective science instruction for students accessing the VESOL should include:
- Hands-on learning
- Multiple means of engagement
- Communication supports
- Sensory exploration
- Opportunities to respond
- Collaborative learning
- Accessible materials and technology
- Real-world application
When educators design science lessons that are both engaging and accessible, students are more likely to participate actively, communicate meaningfully, and develop deeper understanding of scientific concepts.