ABSTRACT
Early adolescence is a time of considerable change in physical, social, cognitive, and moral development for all young people, including students with intellectual disability. Most sources that describe this time period, generally between the ages of 11 through 14, indicate that it is a time of rapid physical development coupled with confusion, excitement, new social situations, and increased reasoning abilities-all of which make this time a thrilling and sometimes challenging time for students, parents, and teachers alike (Repetto, 2012). This chapter will investigate the qualities of educational programs designed for early adolescents with intellectual disability that address these development challenges and that meet the educational goals for students in this age range. We begin with a brief overview of developmental issues that are important for all students.
