Which of the following is a modification?

• A. Alternate curriculum.
• B. Extended time on tests.
• C. Oral exams.
• D. Calculator allowed on tests.

Answer: (A)

Understanding the difference between modifications and accommodations helps explain why this is about a modification. A modification changes what the student is expected to learn or demonstrate, effectively changing the content or standards. An alternate curriculum does just that: it substitutes a different set of learning goals and material for the student, so it’s a modification.

The other options adjust how the student demonstrates learning without changing the content itself. Giving extended time on tests allows the student to show understanding of the same material with more time. Administering an oral exam changes the format of the assessment but not the knowledge being tested. Allowing a calculator on tests changes the tools used, not the underlying content or expectations. So those are accommodations, not modifications.

In short, the alternate curriculum is the modification because it alters what is being learned and assessed.