Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) TExES Practice Exam

What is a possible explanation for Mario's consistent poor performance in class?

1. Mario has a mild intellectual disability

2. Mario has an attention deficit disorder

3. Mario is emotionally disturbed

4. Mario has a learning disability

The correct answer is: Mario has a learning disability

Choosing the option that suggests Mario has a learning disability is a reasonable explanation for his consistent poor performance in class. Learning disabilities can affect a student's ability to process information, understand instructions, or perform academic tasks at grade level, even if they have average or above-average intelligence in other areas. This discrepancy can lead to difficulties in various subjects and impact overall academic achievement. Students with learning disabilities may struggle with specific skills such as reading, writing, or mathematics, which can contribute to ongoing challenges in their educational experience. Identifying a learning disability often involves assessments that reveal these specific processing issues, helping educators design appropriate interventions and support strategies tailored to the individual’s needs. The other options, while each valid in different contexts, do not specifically focus on the academic skill deficits tied directly to learning disabilities. A mild intellectual disability typically indicates a broader range of cognitive challenges that affect overall learning capacity. Attention deficit disorder primarily influences attention and can lead to academic challenges, but does not inherently indicate a difficulty with learning specific content. Emotional disturbances can significantly affect behavior and engagement in the classroom, yet do not always result in the kind of consistent academic performance issues tied directly to a learning disability.