The "slow" learner is a child who is too intelligent to be classified as handicapped, but is not able to cope adequately with traditional academic work. It is a term used for instructional purposes rather than labeling.

• I.Q. Range: 76-89 on individual intelligence tests.
• Number: 20% or 1 of every 5 students.
• General Potential: By age 17, to have achieved 8th grade level.
• Comparison to Other Students:
  • Grade 3 will be at least one year behind;
  • Grade 7 will probably be about three years behind.
• General School Programs:
  • Retention in Grade;
  • Ability Grouping;
  • Remedial Classes.

Possible Causes of children being slow learners: --heredity--lack of environmental stimulation -physical or health reasons -rejection by parents, peers, teachers, and other persons -low nutrition-inadequate educational experiences-minor neurological deficiencies and other variables

Characteristics:-slow in academic learning--often skilled in mechanical or artistic activities, in physical activities or in social situations-may have short attention span or be easily distracted by outside stimuli -may not be able to generalize -may be withdrawn and not participate voluntarily -may try to compensate for lack of school success by disruptive aggression -will require more exposure to understand a concept -with adequate instruction can be taught skills which are important to society and encourage feelings of self-worth.