SMART Target Examples for Down Syndrome
in Irish Primary Schools
Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21. In Irish schools, students with Down syndrome typically require support across multiple NEPS need areas including language and communication, literacy, numeracy, and social skills, with many benefiting from inclusive classroom settings alongside targeted interventions.
Prevalence in Ireland
Approximately 1 in 546 babies born in Ireland has Down syndrome, one of the highest rates in Europe. Down Syndrome Ireland supports over 3,500 members nationwide.
SMART Target Examples by NEPS Need Area
These targets are mapped to NEPS need areas and categorised by Continuum of Support level. Replace [student] with the student's name and [date] with your review date (typically 6-8 weeks).
Language & Communication
By [date], [student] will use a 4-word sentence to make a request (e.g., 'I want more milk') on 4 out of 5 occasions during snack time, as observed by the SNA.
By [date], [student] will use Lámh signs alongside spoken words to communicate 5 key needs (drink, toilet, help, more, finished) on 4 out of 5 occasions.
Literacy
By [date], [student] will recognise and read 20 sight words from the See and Learn programme with 80% accuracy, as assessed by the SET.
By [date], [student] will match 10 initial letter sounds to pictures with 80% accuracy using a multi-sensory phonics approach.
Numeracy
By [date], [student] will count objects up to 10 with one-to-one correspondence on 4 out of 5 occasions using concrete materials.
By [date], [student] will identify and name the numerals 1-10 with 80% accuracy using a number line and matching cards.
Social & Emotional
By [date], [student] will follow the classroom routine for morning arrival (hang coat, place bag, sit at desk) independently using a visual schedule on 4 out of 5 days.
By [date], [student] will play cooperatively with 2 peers during a structured game for 10 minutes on 3 out of 5 occasions during yard time.
Self-Care & Independence
By [date], [student] will independently wash and dry their hands using a 5-step visual sequence after using the toilet on 4 out of 5 occasions.
Attention & Concentration
By [date], [student] will attend to a group activity for 10 minutes when seated near the teacher with visual supports, on 4 out of 5 occasions.
Common Strengths
- Strong visual learning ability
- Good social skills and desire to interact with peers
- Enjoyment of music, drama, and creative activities
- Ability to follow established routines
- Warm, affectionate personality
- Strong imitation skills - learns well from peer modelling
Common Needs
- Targeted speech and language support for expressive language
- Multi-sensory approaches to literacy and numeracy
- Visual supports for comprehension and task sequencing
- Support with short-term auditory memory
- Fine motor support for handwriting and self-care
- Social skills teaching for age-appropriate peer interaction
Example SSF Phrasing
Copy-paste ready phrasing for the Strengths and Needs sections of the Student Support File.
Strengths Phrasing
- “[Student] is a visual learner who responds well to pictures, symbols, and demonstrations.”
- “[Student] has a warm personality and enjoys social interaction with peers.”
- “[Student] follows established classroom routines with consistency.”
- “[Student] shows enthusiasm and engagement during music, drama, and art activities.”
Needs Phrasing
- “[Student] needs targeted speech and language support to develop expressive language skills.”
- “[Student] requires a multi-sensory, sight-word approach to literacy alongside phonics instruction.”
- “[Student] benefits from visual supports and simplified language for comprehension.”
- “[Student] needs support with fine motor skills for handwriting and self-care tasks.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are SMART targets for Down syndrome in Irish schools?
What literacy approach works best for students with Down syndrome?
Should a child with Down syndrome attend a mainstream school?
Official Irish References
Essential Guides
Related Conditions
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