With Making a Difference as its central theme, the Seventh Edition of this bestselling text recognizes that more than ever before, educators have the opportunity and ability to make a real difference in the educational experiences of their students with disabilities. Students and teachers have long relied on this comprehensive overview of the field of special education and the ways in which all teachers can help students with special needs to succeed in school and reach their full potential. The text is brimming with evidence-based practices, ready-to-use teaching tips, and up-to-the minute information about technology applications and contemporary inclusive practices?all tools that teachers can use with students of all abilities, from those who struggle to the most gifted. The text uses authentic stories from real people, current news events, and examples from contemporary popular culture to examine the positive effects of over 30 years of IDEA and many years of social activism on the lives of individuals with disabilities, their families, and the educators and professionals who work with them.