Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam

What characterizes mild intellectual disabilities?

1. Significant delays across all cognitive areas

2. Limitations solely in social skills

3. Ability to master complex academic concepts independently

4. Learning new skills best through indirect methods

The correct answer is: Significant delays across all cognitive areas

Mild intellectual disabilities are characterized by significant delays in cognitive functioning, but these delays are not universal across all areas as individuals may have strengths in specific domains. In this context, the definition of significant delays implies that individuals with mild intellectual disabilities typically have an IQ range of approximately 50–70, which means they display limitations in everyday functioning and often require support in various aspects of their lives. While there may be acknowledged difficulties in areas such as reasoning, problem-solving, and planning, individuals with mild intellectual disabilities may also demonstrate the ability to learn adaptive skills and even function independently in familiar situations. However, their overall cognitive profile includes marked challenges, distinguishing them from individuals who might solely have social skills impairments or those who can learn complex academic skills on their own. This understanding underscores the importance of targeted educational strategies to aid in skill acquisition tailored to individual strengths and weaknesses. Thus, the appropriate characterization of mild intellectual disabilities is indeed marked by significant delays across cognitive areas.