A 12-year-old who scores average on a standardized test but is below grade level in reading and writing is most consistent with which disability classification?

The classification of Specific Learning Disability is most appropriate for a 12-year-old who demonstrates average performance on standardized tests yet struggles with reading and writing skills. This discrepancy between standardized test results and academic performance indicates that the student is experiencing difficulties in acquiring basic academic skills, which is characteristic of a specific learning disability.

Students with specific learning disabilities typically show a notable gap between their intellectual capabilities and their academic achievements, particularly in areas such as reading and writing. This classification is recognized in educational settings to provide the necessary support and interventions tailored to the individual's learning challenges.

In contrast, emotional disturbances often relate to issues with emotional regulation, behavior, and social interactions, which do not primarily focus on academic skills like reading and writing. Autism spectrum disorder encompasses a range of developmental conditions that impact social communication and behavior, not specifically academic performance discrepancies. Lastly, speech or language impairments focus on difficulties with verbal communication and comprehension, rather than academic achievements in literacy skills. Therefore, the specific learning disability classification aligns closely with the scenario described, highlighting the student’s need for targeted interventions in reading and writing.