Curriculum

The Differentiated Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements (DCAPS) is an adapted version of the national Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS) developed to meet the diverse learning needs of students in special schools in South Africa. It is tailored for learners with severe intellectual disabilities (SID), ensuring they receive an inclusive, relevant, and accessible education.

​

Key Features of DCAPS:

1. Differentiated Approach:  DCAPS modifies content, teaching strategies, and assessment methods to align with the cognitive and developmental levels of learners.

2. Focus Areas:

   • Functional Skills: Emphasis on life skills, communication, and social interaction to promote independence.

   • Literacy and Numeracy: Simplified language and mathematical concepts relevant to real-life situations.

   • Vocational Training: Preparing learners for potential employment or self-sufficiency by including practical skills.

3. Assessment:

   • Continuous, flexible, and focused on individual progress rather than traditional grade-level outcomes.

   • Includes observational assessments and portfolios instead of standardized tests.

4. Teacher Support: Provides specialized guidelines and training for educators to implement the curriculum effectively in diverse classroom settings.

​

The DCAPS curriculum supports the  goal of inclusive education in South Africa by ensuring that learners with intellectual disabilities have opportunities for meaningful participation and development.