Social work 238 Content Exam

A school social worker is informed that a student at the school has died suddenly. Which of the following steps by the social worker represents the most appropriate initial action to take in this situation? A. convening the school's crisis response team B. coordinating school counseling for students and faculty C. gathering donations for a memorial at the school D. holding a school wide assembly to notify students and faculty

A (objective 0004) schools are required to have a team that is trained and ready to assume specific responsibilities and established protocols in the event of a crisis. The unexpected death of a student would create such a crisis and the crisis response team is prepared to address the needs of the family, students, and other members of the school community

Once a referral for special education evaluation for a student is initiated which of the following procedures must occur prior to assessment of the student? a. obtaining consent from the students's parents/guardians to proceed b. facilitating an eligibility conference between the students support team and the student's parents/ guardians c. explaining potential service options to the student's parents/guardians d. seeking input from the student's parents/guardians about the students interest and preferences

A (objective 0006) An initial special education evaluation referral is a request to have a student assessed to determine eligibility for special education services. Parents/guardian of the referred student must provide informed consent for the student to be assessed before the referral request can move forward.

A school social worker is part of the Individualized education Program (IEP) team. The team is reviewing reevaluation data for a student. The results of the reevaluation indicate that the student is no linger eligible for special education services. In this situation, the team should take which of the following actions? a. providing the student's parents/guardians with written notice prior to termination of services b. creating a plan of informal educational supports after termination of services c. conducting additional assessments to ensure that the decision to terminate services is appropriate d. obtaining written consent consent from the students parents/guardians to terminate services

A (objective 0006) Schools in Illinois are required to provide student's parents/guardians with prior written notice when the school proposes a change in the identification, evaluation, educational placement, or provision of a free and appropriate public education. The content snd timeline for the written notice is specified by state and federal legislation.

A school social worker is collaborating with a classroom teacher to implement self assessment activities with students. the teacher has worked with students to establish learning goals and identify steps to take in order to achieve the goals. Which of the following additional activities should the social worker recommend to the teacher? a. helping students evaluate their progress in achieving their learning goals using various tracking tools. b. creating additional objective related to students learning goals. c. discussing potential interventions with students to support them in achieving their learning goals d. meeting periodically with students to revise their learning goals

A (objective 0006) student self assessment begins with setting learning goals and proceeds to the production of work that aims to achieve those goals. Self assessment then involve assessing whether the work achieved the targeted goals and either revising existing goals or setting new goals. The use of tracking tools enables students to monitor their progress incrementally toward achieving the targeted goals and is useful in decision ,asking moving forward.

Which of the following actions is most important to the successful implementation of school wide Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS)? a. defining common student behavior expectations and techniques for teaching, reinforcing and reteaching expectations as needed. b. using screening tools to identify students who may need additional assistance in following behavior expectations c. training staff on strategies for classroom management and helping students follow behavior expectations d. displaying consequences for not following behavior expectations throughout the school as a reminder to students

A (objective 0007) Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) is a framework for improving student behavior and school climate. In PBIS, schools tech behavior in much the same way as they teach academics. A hallmark of PBIS is that everyone knows what behavior is appropriate in the school. Students learn basic behavior expectations and receive praised or incentives for appropriate behavior.

When working with teachers to address the needs of students who are homeless, a school social worker encourages teachers to provide student with frequent opportunities to make decisions about their learning. Adopting this approach is likely to benefit student who are homeless primarily by: a. fostering in students a sense of competency and control within the learning environment. b. reinforcing to students the need to prioritize learning despite challenging circumstances c. preparing students to advocate effectively for their personal and educational needs. d. enabling students to achieve grade level standards within the expected time frame.

A (objective 0007) Students who are homeless often function in unstable and unpredictable environments outside of school and may be subject to unpleasant circumstances over which they have little or no control. By providing these students with the chance to participate in and have a voice in decisions about their learning, education give student who are homeless control over some areas of their lives. This sense of control provides a measure of stability and predictability for students.

The primary purpose of a social worker in a school is to: a. provide a setting the promotes student's social emotional and academic competence. b. ensure that students achieve their full potential in the area of social development c. verify that educators are using appropriate and responsive instructional approaches. d. educate the school community about the challenges faced by various student populations

A (objective 0008) School social worker services are designed primarily to contribute to the school success of each student. School success can be defined as the social/emotional and academic competence of each student. School social worker strives to provide a setting for teaching and learning where students can have the optimal environment for development.

A school social worker is leading a partnership with local colleges that have offered to provide schools with college interns whoa re studying school social work. The social worker, school administrator, and representatives from the colleges have completed preliminary planning, including defining goals, assigning responsibilities, and determining training and resource requirements. Which of the following actions by the social worker would best promote effective implementation of the intern program? a. coordinating ongoing meetings between school and college staff to monitor the intern program b. asking college staff to create a system for evaluating intern performance c. providing college staff with contact information for school staff who will be working with interns d. arranging for college staff to observe intern in the school setting

A (objective 0009) partnerships between schools and local organizations, including colleges, require ongoing communication, collaboration, and consultation to be effective. Coordination of ongoing meetings between school and college staff can assist in effective implementation of programs by ensuring that issues and concerns that arise can be discussed in a timely and collaborative manner and that adjustments can be made to improve the program as needed.

A school social worker is a member of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) team for student with an intellectual disability. At the end of the year IEP meeting, team members report that the student has demonstrated significant regression or previously learned academic and social skills after weekends and long breaks. Given this information, which of the following recommendations would be most appropriate for this student? a. referring the student for extended school year services b. designing assignments for the student to complete outside of school c. providing the student with outside tutoring services d. adding additional modifications for the student's classroom assignments

A (objective 0010) Extended school year services are provided for students with dis abilities beyond the normal school year. The purpose of extended school year services is to help students maintain current skill levels. Since this student has documented regression of skills during long breaks and across weekends, Extended School Year services would be an appropriate match.

A ninth-grade teacher notifies the school social worker that a student in the teacher's class has nine unexcused absences in the current school year. According to Illinois regulations, the school social worker should take which of the following actions? a. sending a letter to the students parents/guardians informing them of the absences and potential consequences b. alerting local law enforcement authorities of the student's absences c. formulating a plan of supports or interventions with eh teacher to assist the student in reducing absences d. making a home visit to determine potential causes of the student's absences

A (objective 0010) in the state of Illinois, parents/ guardians of the students attending public schools are notified after a students ninth absence in a school year. They are informed by a letter informing them that if the student misses anymore school for the remainder of the school year, a medial excuse from a licensed physician will be required.

A school social worker wants to improve the effectiveness of behavioral interventions for students. The social worker can best achieve this outcome by first: a. consulting with a professional who possess expertise in the area of behavioral interventions b. examining research related to different components of behavioral interventions c. asking teachers to describe behavioral interventions that have been successful in their classes. d. developing a screening instrument to identify the need fr early behavioral interventions

A (objective 0011) Consultation is a problem solving process in which advice and knowledge as well as reflection on the school social worker's practice is offered by an individual with specialized knowledge and experience. The consultation process will help the social worker identify specific aspects of behavioral interventions that could be improved and develop strategies for improving outcomes.

A group of school social workers at the middle school level are engaged in a process of self - assessment to improve their professional practice. The social workers have analyzed student, educator, and system data as well as personal performance data. Which the following steps should the social workers take next? a. establishing professional goals b. identifying benchmark indicators for growth c. summarizing current strengths d. selecting professional development activities

A (objective 0011) analysis of various forms of data reveals specific personal, student, and systemic needs. these needs provide the basic for establishing professional learning goals, which then lead school social workers to developing a plan for achieving the knowledge and skills to achieve the goals.

which of the following instructional approaches would be most responsive to students who have a preference for kinesthetic learning? a. incorporating physical movement into lesson activities b. providing printed handouts for multimedia presentations c. developing written instructions for research assignments d. integrating small- and large group discussions into lessons

A. (objective 0001) students who have a preference for kinesthetic learning respond well to activities that incorporate physical movement and tactile experiences. This approach supports student in understanding abstract concepts through direct physical involvement with the content.

A school social worker has formed an interdisciplinary team to address the needs of a student with multiple disabilities who is currently in foster care. The team includes general education teachers, special educations teachers, and various service providers =, many of whom have not worked together before. At the initial team meeting, the social worker should utilize which of the following strategies? a. providing a survey to gather feedback b. opening the c. encouraging the exchange of e-mail addresses d. incorporating a team building exercise

B (Objective 0009) An icebreaker activity is designed to help individuals in a group or on a team get to know one another. Icebreaker help break down barriers and begin the process of exchanging ideas and offering potential solutions.

A school social worker is supporting a fourth grade teacher in developing a lesson plan on photosynthesis for a class that includes students with disabilities. The teacher plans to have students create a diagram illustrating the process of photosynthesis. According to Bloom's taxonomy, this activity is an example of which of the following levels of learning? a. evaluation b. analysis c. comprehension d. knowledge

B (objective 0001) Bloom's taxonomy describes six levels of learning; knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Analysis is described as the ability to break down or distinguish parts or components of a whole to understand the organizational structure of a whole.

According to Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, which of the following developmental challenges occurs between ages three and five? a. identity vs. confusion b.initiative vs. guilt c. trust vs. mistrust d, intimacy vs.isolation

B (objective 0001) Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development describes the impact of social experiences across the lifespan. The theory includes eight stages and focuses on social interactions and relationships affect development. Between ages three and five, the key developmental challenge is initiative verses guilt. During this period the child regularly interacts with other children. Children begin to plan activities make up games and innate actives with others. If given this opportunity, children develop a sense of initiative and feel secure in their ability to lead others and make decisions.

A school social worker will be meeting with a new sixth grade student. The student has lived in three different homeless shelters and has attended five different schools in the past year. Prior to meeting with the student the social worker meets with the students teachers to discuss how best to meet the students needs in school. In this meeting, the social worker should emphasize the importance of: a. referring the student and family to community agencies that provide housing assistance. b. building a strong relationship with the student that includes opportunities to make personal learning decisions. c. discussing the students educational history and enrollment records with the school administer. d. providing the student with information about local support groups for those experiencing housing instability.

B (objective 0002) The development of strong student- teacher relationships helps students feel a sense of belonging and stability. Opportunities to make personal learning decisions promotes a sense of control and builds foundation for self advocacy.

A school social worker is working with a fifth grade teacher to develop strategies for creating a learning community which individual differences are respected and valued. The social worker can best help the teacher achieve this outcome by taking which of the following steps first? a. assisting the teacher in developing lessons that incorporate group assignments and activities b. supporting the teacher in defining clear expectations for classroom behavior and interactions c. modeling for the teacher several methods that can be used to informally assess social skills d. providing the teacher with professional resources on classroom management strategies

B (objective 0002) expectations communicate to student standards for appropriate behaviors and interactions in various classroom contexts. Expectations also communicate to students how they should treat one another. This practice sets the tone for the learning environment and what is valued and important.

According to the principals of general systems theory, schools, as open systems, tend to function in which of the following ways? a. undergoing fluid sequences that are dependent on objective data b. maintaining steady states through feedback processes c. adopting ever changing modes based on initial conditions d. taking intermittent positions through transitional policies

B (objective 0003) General systems theory provides an organized means for studying schools as dynamic environments. As open systems with permeable boundaries, schools function in dynamic equilibrium within their environments. They have both internal and external inputs and outputs and tend to maintain themselves in steady states through positive and negative feedback loops.

A nine year old third grade student is referred to the school social worker due to concerns about the student's poor interpersonal skills and low self confidence. Which of the following techniques is most important for the social worker to use in the initial meeting with the student? a. inviting the student's parents/guardians to participate b. establishing rapport and a sense of trust with the student c. conducting an informal assessment of the student in areas of concern d. asking the student to share personal feelings about school

B (objective 0003) Rapport and trust from the basis for meaningful relationships between individuals. Building rapport and a sense of trust with the student will enable the school social worker to guide and support the student in an effective and positive way and will help the student feel encouraged to share thoughts and concerns openly.

A school social worker will be facilitating a meeting school and community stakeholder about a new program for high school students who are at risk for dropping out of school. The social worker wants to ensure that the meeting achieves the desired outcomes within the time allowed. Given the goal, the social worker should take which of the following steps prior to the meeting? a. panning opportunities for questions and answers before meeting breaks b. creating a meeting agenda that outlines topics along with planned time frames for the topics c. compiling a list of supplemental resources to distribute to participants d. developing a survey aligned with the focus of the meeting to gather feedback from participants

B (objective 0004) A meeting agenda guides participants through the meeting and sets expectations about what will be covered through the meeting and how much time the presenter plans to allot for each topic during the meeting. A agenda helps with the placing of the meeting to ensure that necessary information is provided during the allowed time.

According to Murray Bowen's family systems theory, parents/guardians pass on their emotions to their children though which of the following processes? a. nuclear family emotional process b. family projection process c. multigenerational transmission process d. societal emotional process

B (objective 0004) Children inherit strengths as well as many types of challenges through the relationships with their parents/guardian. The problems they inherit that most affect their lives are relationship sensitivities such as heightened needs for attention and approval, the tendency to blame oneself or others, feeling responsible for the happiness of others, and acting impulsively to relieve the anxiety of the moment. The projection process follows three steps: (1) the parent/guardian focuses on a child out of fear that something is wrong with the child (2) the parent/ guardian interprets the child's behavior as confirming the fear and (3) the parent/guardian treats the child as if something is really wrong with the child.

In an initial meeting with a kindergarten student who was referred for emotional concerns, the school social worker strongly suspects that the student is experiencing neglect in the home setting. The social worker is obligated to take which of the following actions? a. including the student's home environment in planned interventions b. submitting a report about the student to local child protective services c. contacting the student's parents/guardians to gather more information d. arranging a home visit to observe the student's home environment

B (objective 0004) Neglect is the failure of a parent/guardian caregiver to meet minimal standards for providing adequate supervisions, food, clothing, medical care, shelter or other basic needs. When a school social worker suspects neglect or abuse, by law a report must be filed with child protective services. This is the social worker's obligation as a mandated reporter.

in which of the following situations would it be most important for a school social worker to collect baseline data? a. A small group of students will be trained to become peer mediators. b.A student with behavioral challenges will be receiving an intervention c.A student is recently determined eligible for special education services d. a small group of students have completed counseling on friendship skills.

B (objective 0005) Baseline data are a measurement of behavior taken before interventions are started. Baseline data are important because they allow the school social worker to compare the behavior before and after implementation of an intervention to determine of the intervention is working.

Which of the following assessments should be used to assess the general thinking and reasoning skills of a third grade student? a. Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement, Third Edition (KTEA-3) b. Wechsler Intelligence Scale for children -Fifth Edition (WISC -V) c.. Wide Range Achievement Test, Fifth Edition (WRAT5) d. Behavior Assessment System for Children, third Edition (BASC- 3)

B (objective 0005) The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children -Fifth Edition (WISC-V) is an individually administered comprehensive clinical instrument used to assess the general thinking and reasoning skills of student aged six through ten years. The WISC-V can be sued in processes such as identifying an intellectual disability or giftedness and making placement decisions for specialized educational programs.

A school social worker in high school wants to utilize technology to assess the effective ness of a school wide attendance incentive program. Which of the following approaches would best help achieve this goal? a. developing an online teacher survey to gather information about students absences b. creating a spreadsheet to track trends in students absences and incentives awarded c. e-mailing students to seek feedback about the incentives offered for meeting attendance targets d. texting students parents/guardians periodically to determine if their children's attendance has improved

B (objective 0005) spreadsheets software is sued to organize, analyze and store data. The data can be manipulated in various ways and populated into charts or graphs, which is useful for identifying trends in the data.

Following an initial eligibility meeting, a student's parents/guardians state that they do not agree with the findings and recommendations from their child's evaluation. The students parents/guardians have which of the following rights in this situation? a. asking for supplemental assessment by specialist in the school district b. requesting in writing a new evaluation by an outside individual or agency c. making the final decision on the type of services for which their child is eligible d. seeking financial compensation for additional evaluation of their child

B (objective 0006) in some cases, a student's parents/guardians may have reason to believe that the evaluation completed by school personnel does not provide an accurate picture of their child's abilities and needs. In these cases parents/guardians can request in writing for a new evaluation to be completed by an individual or agency outside of the school district. The school district, however, is free to agree with the evaluation or deny the request pending a due process hearing.

A sixth grade student with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) expresses to the school social worker a goal of improving time on task in order to make better grades. Which of the following approaches by the social worker would best help the student achieve this goal? a. providing the student's teacher with several behavior management strategies to implement with the student b. working with the student and the student's teacher to develop a token economy system in the classroom c. arranging for the student to receive personal recognition from the school principal for progress made d. contacting outside agencies the provide academic tutoring to secure services for the student

B (objective 0006) token economy systems are based on the principals of applied behavior analysis and emphasize the use of positive reinforcement to promote behavior change. Token economy systems help student visualize progress, accept and work for delayed reinforcement, and learn to self regulate behavior

A school district has a significant number of students who relocate multiple times during the school year for various reasons. School social workers want to create school wide supports for these students, but some school administers express skepticism about this proposal. The social worker can best promote administers acceptance of the proposed supports by: a. gathering research students related to school success for students with high mobility b. providing mobility and achievement data to illustrate the challenges these students face. c. presenting several case studies of students who have high mobility rates d. submitting formal request that includes funding needs and the number of students served.

B (objective 0007) Administrators are responsible for putting programs in place to promote the success of all students in a school or district. Helping administrators see the direct relationship between high mobility and student achievement will communicate the need for more services. The best way for school social workers to help administers see this relationship is to provide concrete data showing the effects of high mobility on achievement.

A school social worker is part of school team that is charged with increasing parent/guardian involvement in school activities and events. Which of the following planning actions by the team would be most effective in promoting the success of this effort? a. examining data from previous school years on parent/guardian participation in school activities b. developing a survey to gather information about barriers to parents/guardians participation in school activities c. researching the various benefits of different types of parent/guardian participation in school activities d. informing parents/guardians of the school's intent to encourage their greater participation in school activities

B (objective 0007) in order to increase parent/guardian involvement in school activities, it is important for the team to gain an understanding of the factors that are currently hindering involvement. A survey is related efficient way to gather information related to specific topics. By developing its own survey, the team can tailor the questions specifically to the topic of parent/guardian involvement. The information gathered will provide the team with guidance about specific areas to target.

A school social worker participates on or facilitates various school teams, which include teachers, service providers, and other school stakeholders, that focus on creating a positive learning environment. Occasionally team members ran into difficulties working together. Which of the following approaches by the social work would best encourage positive and professional relationships between team members? a. soliciting one team member to serve as leader and mediate disagreements between others b. refocusing one team members on their shared purpose and the importance of collaboration in achieving it c. proposing that the team take a break and reconvene with a fresh perspective at another time d. suggesting that individual team members reflect on group processes and share thoughts with the team

B (objective 0007) success for a team looks different than success for an individual. At times team members need to be reminded of the purpose toward which they are all working and how each can play a productive role in achieving that purpose. It is important to communicate that teamwork and collaboration are core principals of successful group work.

A school social worker is conducting a comprehensive needs assessment has identified and engaged stakeholders and analyzed relevant data. Which of the following actions should the social worker take next in this process? a. writing a summation report b. describing follow up strategies c. constructing a resource map d. creating an improvement plan

C ( objective 0010) resource mapping is the process of evaluating available resources and how they can be used most effectively and efficiently. Before implementing any changes indicated by needs assessment data it is important to consider the availability of resources and how they are currently being used.

Which of the following students behaviors is most frequently associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) primarily inattentive presentation ? a.leaving the seat when reaming seated is the classroom expectation b. interrupting others's conversation and having trouble waiting for a turn c.struggling with organization and loosing learning materials d. speaking excessively during play and learning activities

C (objective 0001) attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) primarily inattentive presentation often manifests as difficulties with time management, forgetfulness, loosing things, day dreaming and organizational struggles.

An elementary school social worker has a goal of promoting multicultural sensitivity in the school. Which of the following approaches is likely to be most effective in achieving this outcome? a. creating classroom presentations that focus on the demographics of the school b. assigning students to respond orally or in writing to a prompt about social justice c. developing classroom lessons that incorporate students backgrounds and perspectives d. helping students establish a journal for daily reflections on their personal thoughts

C (objective 0002) school social workers who want to foster multicultural sensitivity should actively demonstrate to students that they care about characteristics such as culture and language that make them unique and valued individuals. One way to demonstrate sensitivity ti these characteristics is to incorporate students cultures, races, ethnicity, and languages into lessons.

Seventh grade students in social skills group are familiarizing themselves with the tasks and roles in the group and learning about other members of the group. These behaviors are characteristic of which of the following stages of group developing? a. storming b. preforming c. forming d. adjourning

C (objective 0003) Groups go through a number of stages to achieve maximum performance. the first stage of group development is "forming" and it is during this stage that members are preoccupied with familiarizing themselves with group task and one another. At this stage group members depend most heavily on the facilitator (school social worker) to provide guidance and support

A school social worker is providing support to a 14-year old eighth grade student with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). the student has difficulties with anxiety, transitions, time management, and independent work. Which of the following strategies by the social worker would be most appropriate for the student? a. providing the student with a daily planner b. asking the principal or teacher to mentor the student c. developing a visual schedule for the student d. giving the student frequent verbal reminders of expectations

C (objective 0003) visual schedules provide a pictorial representation of the day's activities. this approach is appropriate for student with autism because it reinforces the routine of the day, provides student with a handy reminder of what happens next, helps student remain calm, and support independent functioning.

A school district has asked school social workers to help determine whether a school breakfast program is worthwhile pursuit. the district is aware of the positive relationship between improved academic performance and behavior and school breakfast programs. Given this understanding, the social workers plan to conduct a needs assessment related to this issue. The needs assessment should focus on which of the following initial questions? A. What is the likely cost of providing a nutritious breakfast to students in need? B. How many students in the school currently do not have a nutritious breakfast? C. What should the criteria be to determine eligibility for a school breakfast program? D. How much time would be required to fully implement a school breakfast program?

B (objective 0008) Extensive research exists indicating a positive correlation between improvement in behavior and performance in school that provide breakfast programs. Therefore, it would be important to focus the needs assessment on determining the need for a breakfast program for a specific school. Getting information about the number of students who currently do not have a nutritious breakfast provides baseline data for making this determination.

A school social worker who is hired through a related services program and serves with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) provides which of the following types of services? a. systems level b. wraparound c. prevention d. school based

B (objective 0008) School social workers are hired either through a school board or related services program. The related services organization works with schools and often provides therapy and free services to students and families. These services are referred to as wraparound services.

An attorney for a student's parent/guardian serves the school social worker with a subpoena ordering the social worker to appear in court to testify in a custody hearing and to provide the attorney with the social worker's counseling notes. Which of the following actions represents the ethical response by the social worker? a. advising the attorney to present the subpoena to the school administrator b. obtaining written permission from the parent/guardian to provide the requested information c. notifying the parent/guardian that the requested information will be provided d. providing a copy of the subpoena from the attorney to the school district's legal counsel

B (objective 0009) A school social worker's counseling notes are considered confidential information. The social worker has an ethical obligation to maintain this confidentiality, even in the event of a subpoena, unless the student's parents/guardians provide permission in writing to release the information.

A middle school principal asks the school social worker to design quarterly profession development for school staff. The social worker can best ensure that the professional development will be engaging and useful to staff by taking which of the following actions? a. providing staff with school wide data to discuss during the professional development b. defining measurable objectives for professional developmental activities c. soliciting input from staff about their professional developmental needs. d. including community agencies in planing the professional development

C (objective 0004_ professional development is designed to provide staff with new knowledge, skills, and strategies to enhance their professional practice and support student's school success. By soliciting information from staff about their professional development needs, the school social worker will be better able to target presentations to the topics that staff will find most relevant and helpful. This will promote greater engagement during the professional development and a greater likelihood that staff will apply new learning to current practice.

A middle school teacher expresses to the school social worker a desire to monitor and evaluate patterns of student's achievement and performance on assigned projects. Which of the following initial recommendations by the social worker would be most appropriate? a. showing students examples of high quality projects b. emphasizing the use of group projects over individual projects c. providing students with scoring rubric when assigning a project d. discussing with students the weight of projects in final grades.

C (objective 0005) A rubric explicitly represents the performance expectations for a project. A rubric divides the assigned project into component parts and provides clear descriptions of performance characteristics at the scoring level. A rubric can be sued by students and the teacher as a guide during the project as well as to evaluate final performance. Consistent use of this approach will provide the teacher with the information needed to monitor and evaluate patterns of achievement and performance.

A school social worker wants to assess a targeted student behavior across multiple school settings as well as identify the purpose of the behavior and factors that are maintaining the behavior. Which of the following assessments should be implemented in this situation? a. adaptive behavior assessment b. behavior checklist c. functional behavior assessment d. behavior screening

C (objective 0005) The purpose of a functional behavior assessment is to identify the function or purpose of a specific behavior and the factors that may be maintaining the behavior. The information gathered from a functional behavior assessment is used to design effective support plans.

The primary purpose of strength based assessment is to: a. review troublesome areas of individuals lives in conjunction with evidence based interventions b. describe individuals learning and development in positive terms while omitting areas of deficit. c. build in individuals' personal attributes and resources instead of focusing on problems d. determine individuals specific needs along with ways to address self- identified personal issues.

C (objective 0005) strength based assessment is defined as the measurement of emotional and behavioral skills, competencies, and characteristics that create a sense of personal accomplishment and contribute to satisfying relationships. Other areas of focus for strength based assessment include strengths provide a foundation on which to develop positive coping skills and promote growth.

An educational team reviews a student's evaluation results. The results indicate that the student has a disability but is making progress in school with Tier 2 Interventions. The team concludes that the student does not require instructional modifications but would benefit from some classroom accommodations. which of the following courses of action would be most appropriate for the team to take in this situation? a. expanding the number of interventions provided to the student b. developing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for the student c. determine the student's eligibility for Section 504 plan d. developing a plan for conducting additional assessments of the student

C (objective 0006) Section 504 plans are designed to support the needs of students with disabilities who do not require formal modifications to curriculum, instruction, assessment, or environments, but who need some level of support in the form of accommodations.

A school social worker leads a small group of fourth graders who are learning how to wrk cooperatively with peers. Which of the following skills is most important to teach students during group sessions? a. techniques for expressing personal feelings and perspectives to others b. strategies for demonstrating personal responsibility c. techniques for providing and receiving constructive feedback d. strategies for seeking assistance from others

C (objective 0007) Cooperation involves give and take between two or more individuals, Cooperative learning tasks require students to fulfill specific responsibilities as apart of team. Teamwork is likely to be most productive when members are open to feedback from others and know how to offer feedback that is useful. These feedback skills enable students to accept and offer and help as needed for the group to be successful.

An elementary school recently implemented a character education program and the school social worker is part of the team that will be evaluating the program after the first year. The initial step in this evaluation should be to: a: identify populations who benefited most from program activities b. document the program activities implemented at each grade level c. compare pre-and post implementation data for the program d. select instruments for gathering stakeholders feedback on the program

C (objective 0007) Program evaluation should be based on various forms of data. In determining the effectiveness of a program, the first question should focus on how students knowledge, skills, or attitudes changed as a result of the program. This question can be addressed by using comparative data about relevant indicators before and after implementation of the program.

Which of the following activities best illustrates a school social workers appropriate role in supporting the mission of the school? a. acting as a community liaison to promote understanding of the school's initiatives b. advising educators about the best ways to address school wide student achievement gaps c. facilitating the educational process for students whose full participation on education is threatened or marginalized d. documenting efforts of the school to meet the needs of students who require specified instruction of learning environments

C (objective 0008) school social workers work with individual teacher, families and students to meet specific social/emotional and educational needs with the whole school to develop positive policies and program to promote all students success.

A school social worker will be facilitating a conference for service providers and community agencies that support students at an elementary school. Which of the following approaches would best promote a productive conference? a. establishing reasonable time limits for individual participants' comments and questions b. designing several task s for participants to complete in preparation for the conference c. using active listening to clarify and summarize participants' input and feedback d. observing participant interactions during the conference to minimize potential conflicts

C (objective 0009) listening skills are at the center of the school social workers efforts. Well-developed listening skills enable the social worker to gain insights into others perspective and respond effectively to their comments or concerns.

A school social worker has noticed a high number of referrals for minor behavioral issues from a specific teacher and is concerned that students are missing instructional time. The most appropriate way for the social worker to address this concern is to: a. limit the amount of time spent with the students who are referred b. conduct a class meeting with student in the teachers class c. meet with the teacher to discuss the situation and potential solutions d. forward referral data from the teacher to the school principal

C (objective 0010) An in person meeting with the teacher would provide an opportunity for the teacher to clarify what is occurring in the classroom that is promoting the referrals. this approach would establish a cooperative partnership in identifying potential solutions and encouraging the teacher's active engagement in solving the problem.

A middle school social worker is asked to facilitate meetings of the school's advisory committee. The committee includes representatives from stakeholder groups. The social worker is aware that, in the past, some members have raised personal concerns or issues with other members, resulting in unproductive meetings. In this situation the social worker can best promote productive advisory meetings by using which of the following strategies? a. setting aside time at the end of each meeting for committee members to discuss interpersonal issues b. working with committee members to develop ground rules for discussions and interpersonal interactions c. advising committee members to exchange contact information and discuss interpersonal issues outside of meetings d. asking committee members who introduce interpersonal issues into discussions to temporarily leave the meeting

B (objective 0009) Advisory committees bring together individuals with a variety of perspective, ideas, and personalities. It is important to maintain the committee's focus on the important decisions and plans they are making and not become distracted by personal issues or conflicts. Working with the committee to establish ground rules that everyone can commit to will help keep the committee focused on its work and establish a climate of trust.

A teacher notifies the school social worker of suspicions that a student is experiencing abuse in the home. The teacher seeks the social worker's assistance in reporting these suspicions to child protective services. The social worker can best provide this assistance by: a. scheduling a meeting between the student, the teacher, and a child protective services worker b. offering to contact the students parents/guardians before alerting child protective services c. helping the teacher prepare the required information to submit to child protective services d. alerting foster care agencies that a new protective services case will be opened.

C (objective 0010) Different types of information should be included in a report to child protective services. This information may include the names of the student and the parents/guardians; the nature or extent of the suspected abuse; the identity of the individual suspecting the abuse; the individual(s) suspected of the abuse; and actions taken to treat, shelter or assist the student. The school social worker has the knowledge and expertise needed to file comprehensive reports and so could assist the teacher most effectively by helping the teacher make a full and appropriate report.

Which of the following federal legislation provides to high schools where one third or more of students do not graduate? a. Race to the Top (RTTT) b. National Literacy Act c. Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) d. Higher Education Act

C (objective 0010) The every student succeeds Act (ESSA) was passed in 2015. ESSA requires data on student achievement and graduation rates to be reported along with actions in response to the data. Under ESSA states have the flexibility to chart their own path to educational success, but they must submit a plan to the U.S. Department of Education explaining how they will reach those goals. ESSA also provides funding for literacy program and other grants that can help students at these schools succeed.

At the end of the school year, a tenth grade student asks the school social worker to exchange personal social media information to stay in touch over the summer. the social worker's most appropriate response would be to: a. tell the student that personal social media information cannot be shared until the student is 18 years old. b. seek approval from the school administrator to exchange personal social media information worth the student c. explain to the student that personal social media information cannot be exchanged due to boundaries d. agree to exchange personal social media information with the student but restricting the students full access.

C (objective 0011) Professional boundaries are defined as the space between the professional's power and the client's vulnerability. The power of the professional comes from the school social worker's position and knowledge or personal information about the student. To branch professional boundaries would place the relationship between the student and the social worker at risk and would compromise the integrity of services.

In the self assessment process, a school social worker should begin by gathering which of the following information? a. reviews of practice provided by the school social worker's colleagues within the school district b. publications the school social worker has reviewed during the evaluation period c. data related to school social work services provided, time management and student outcomes d. standards of practice for school social workers from national organizations

C (objective 0011) self assessment and decisions about professional practice should be based on data. Effectiveness of practice is determined by, among other indicators, the school social outcomes. These data should be analyzed to determine areas of strength and need and to guide the establishment of professional goals and development.

A third grade student is not making adequate progress in mathematics despite Tier 3 Interventions. Which of the following actions would be most appropriate for addressing the students needs? a. Implementing pre teaching and reteaching strategies with eh student b. researching additional classroom interventions to try with the student c. referring the student for a comprehensive evaluation d. recommending outside touring service for the student

C (objective 004) Tier 3 interventions are most intensive level of intervention with the multi tired systems of support. when tier 3 interventions are unsuccessful, it is time to ex-lore the possibility that the student may require special education support. That is determined through the comprehensive evaluation process.

A school social worker wants to provide appropriate services to several new immigrants and refugee families in the school. Given this goal, which of the following actions should the social worker take first? a. holding an event for families to learn about the school b. creating a directory of agencies and other resources for the families c. identifying specific family needs and barriers to access d. engaging teachers in discussions of various family dynamics

C (objectives 0002) Through immigrant and refugee families share a number of common needs, it is important for the school social worker to identify the needs of each family in order to provide or facilities appropriate services. In addition, these families may face barriers to accessing appropriate services, including language differences, discrimination, shortage of diverse providers, and different values and world views.

Which of the following theories posits that children are born with basic mental structure on which future learning and knowledge are based on? a. Lev Vygotsky's sociocultural theory b. John Bowlby's attachment theory c. Jean Piaget's cognitive developmental theory d. Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory

C. (objective 00001) Jean Piaget's cognitive developmental theory explains the mechanisms and process by which an infant and child develop into an individual who can think hypothetically and reason abstractly. According to Piaget's theory cognitive development is a progressive reorganization of the basic mental structure through maturation and environmental experiences.

A high school teacher consults with a school social worker about an eleventh grade student. The teacher reports that the student, who was recently diagnosed with depression, is withdrawn, has trouble concentrating, cries occasionally, and has declining academic performance. Which of the following interventions would be most appropriate for the social worker to recommend first? a. providing the student with information about the effects of depression on learning b. suggesting that the student be evaluated by the crisis team for sducidal tendencies c. scheduling a meeting with the student to develop an individual plan for classroom support d. referring the student to an outside agency for individual counseling related to depression

C. (objective 0001) depression is one of the most common mental health issues among adolescents and can effect their learning. Student with depression need specific supports to function effectively in the school environment, and the support should be specific to the student.

A high school student informs the school social worker that the student's family has recently become homeless and is living in a shelter across town that is not in the school's attendance zone. The student is concerned about having to attend school in the new attendance zone. Which of the following responses by the school social worker would most appropriately address the students concerns. a. explaining to the students that the student is required to attend school in the shelter's attendance zone. b. informing the student about the right to stay put in the current school and to be provided transportation as needed. c. explaining to the student that they student may finish the school year in the current school before changing schools d. informing the student of various housing options available in the current school's attendance zone.

B (objective 0010) The McKinney- Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law designed to provide assistance to students whoa re homeless. According to the law, students who are homeless have the right to stay put in their current school, even if their attendance zone changes. Additionally, students who are homeless will be provided with free transportation to and from the school. These provisions are designed to ensure consistency and stability in the students education.

According to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) code of ethics, with regard to confidentiality, school social worker have an ethical obligation to: a. reveal confidential student information to teachers according to district guidelines b. maintain the confidentiality of student information in accordance with best practice in the field c. make confidential purposes d. consult the local education agency's legal staff in questions of confidentiality of student information

B (objective 0010) the duty to keep student information confidential is guided by ethics of the field as well as federal legislation. Assurance of confidentiality is important because it enables students and families to seek help without fear of personal or legal reprisal

A school social worker wants to broaden current knowledge of effective interventions for students with mental health issues. Which of the following approaches would provide the most useful information on this topic? a. conducting formal observations of student with mental health issues b. reading peer reviewed journals for mental health professionals c. reading the diagnostic records of students with mental health issues d. developing an action research student on mental health topic

B (objective 0011) Peer reviewed journals are scholarly publications for specific professional audiences. These journals usually contain research articles, reports, and practical articles applicable to the profession as well as current and emerging trends in the field.

A school social worker maintains a calendar of appointments, meetings, and other activities. However, the social worker still struggles to manage these responsibilities. Which of the following additional would most effectively enhance the social worker's ability to manage multiple responsibilities? a. distributing an availability document to school staff at the beginning of the month b. implementing a color- coded system to prioritize tasks c. working with school administers to streamline documentation requirements d. reserving a monthly block of time for administrative tasks

B (objective 008) Everything a school social worker does on behalf of students and families is important work, but some matters are more pressing than others. The use of a color-coded system can help manage these matters. For example, a red sticker may be placed on things that must be dine right away, a yellow sticker may be placed on tasks that require a bit less urgency, and a green sticker for things that can wait a day or two.

to provide culturally sensitive school social worker services, a school social worker should begin by: a. considering the distinct needs of diverse populations b. researching the availability of local multicultural services c. seeking input from members of community cultural centers d. determining the number of English learners who require services

A ( objective 0002) considering the distinct needs (e.g. cultural, social, psychological, economic) of diverse populations provides the foundation for understanding the perspectives and priorities of various groups in the school. This will enable the school social worker to tailor services to address the unique needs of the various groups.

A school social worker is a member of the school's referral team. The team is discussing the academic progress of a fifth grade student who is experiencing difficulties in reading fluency and comprehension. In determining how best to support the student =, the social worker should recommend that the team begin by: a. reviewing interventions previously implemented with the student and their effectiveness b. developing a series of increasingly intensive interventions for the student c. conducting several formal assessments of the students intellectual and academic abilities d. evaluating the appropriateness of the students current educational placement

A ( objective 0004) the purpose of the pre referral team is to ensure that a student receives reasonable and appropriate supports before being referred for a comprehensive evaluation for special education eligibility. The team can only move forward with their process of it investigates which techniques, strategies, and interventions have already been implemented with the student and whether they were effective of ineffective.

which of the following types of validity occurs when a measure provides adequate coverage of a subject being studied? a. content b. predictive c. external d. convergent

A ( objective 0005) Content validity refers to the extent to which a measure represents all facets of given construct. This includes measuring the appropriate content as well as having an adequate sample.

A recent school climate survey revealed that 52 percent of student in a middle school reported not feeling safe at school. The school social worker has identified three research based program for potentially addressing the school's specific safety issues. In determining which program to implement, the social worker should lead school decision makers in considering which of the following questions first? a. What are the characteristics of the school population that the program will serve? b. To what extent will school staff need to be trained to use the program ? c. Does the program include guidelines for evaluating its effectiveness in meeting stated goals? d. Has the program had the desired outcomes in other local schools?

A ( objective 0007) effective efforts to address concerns about the school climate must be first and foremost tailored to the school and the students it serves. Considering the characteristics of the student population is the best way to determine which program is likely to be most responsive to the students needs and best match for the specific concerns raised.

A committee of general education and special education teachers has been charged with identifying strategies for enhancing school success for students with disabilities. The school social worker can best promote the success of this collaborative effort by: a. putting in place a system to ensure that each committee member has an opportunity to contribute to discussions and decisions. b. requesting that committee members suggest topics to be addressed in each meeting c. asking the school administrator to participate in committee activities serve as final authority over decisions of the group. d. selecting a different committee member to facilitate discussions at each meeting

A ( objective 0009) collaborations is built on the principal that many ideas and perspectives lead to better decisions and outcomes. ensuring that all participants in a collaborative effort have an opportunity to express their ideas and perspective is one way to promote successful outcomes. This approach also helps participate feel that their input is valued and useful to the groups efforts.

Which of the following benefits is provided to school social workers through memberships in a professional association? A. educational and networking opportunities B. health insurance c. Regular options to invents in mutual funds and stocks d. Free legal services

A ( objective 0011) Professional associations support networking through local, state and national conferences. As a member of a professional association, a school social worker has opportunities to attend seminars, receive training, and view presentations by experts in the field on best practice and emerging trends.

As part of a broader needs assessment, a school social worker is developing a survey to gather data related to students' access to various technologies and the extent of their screen time. When creating questions for the survey , the social worker should focus on which of the following questions formats? A. Checklist B. open response c. Matrix d. Likert scale

A (Objective 0008) Effective survey questions should be designed with data analysis and output in mind. A checklist format makes it easy for respondents to complete the survey and facilitates quick tabulation and analysis of responses.

An eight year old student was recently evaluated by a school psychologist. The results of the evaluation include the following results. (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - Fifth Edition WISC_V) (Verbal comprehension- 131, Perceptual Reasoning 134, Working Memory 114, Processing Speed 115, General Ability Index 137) The student's teacher reports that the student frequently finishes classwork before peers and often expresses boredom in class. Based on this information, the school social worker's most appropriate recommendation to the teacher is to: a. link complex assignments with the students interest and areas of strength. b. provide the student with additional assignments to complete. c. engage the student as a teaching assistant to provide support to others. d. arrange for the student to work independently on assignments.

A (objective 000 1) According to the students scores on the various components of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children -Fifth Edition, the student scored within the range for giftedness in verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, and processing speed. Linking complex assignments to the students interest and areas of strength is an appropriate method of differentiating instruction for students who are gifted.

the results of a home language survey of a new student indicate that English is not spoken in the home. Given this information, which of the following steps should the school social worker take next? a. referring the student for an assessment of the student's English proficiency b. arranging to meet with the family to explain the importance of the student learning English c. requesting interpreter services while the student is learning English d. discussing with teachers strategies for promoting the student's English language acquisition

A (objective 000 2) A home language survey is the first tool used to identify English learners who may require language assistance. To ensure that the student receives appropriate and necessary supports, the student's level of English proficiency must be assessed. This is usually done by English as a Second Language staff.

A student's cultural background is likely to have the most significant effect on the student's: a. perceptions of self and others b. ability to participate in cognitive assessments c. need to praise by peers d. capacity to interact with the environment

A (objective 0002) cultural background plays a significant role in the social/emotional development, including how students interact with others and how students view themselves and others. These areas are a direct results of world view and culturally based roles and expectations.

A school social worker is planning an intervention for a student with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who exhibits verbal outbursts and aggression when triggered . When working with the student to address these behaviors, the social worker should emphasize which of the following approaches? a.exploring the role of trauma in the student's behaviors and how it influences the student individually and ecologically b. asking staff members who interact with the student to collect data related to the student's trauma and behaviors c. discussing with the student's parents/ guardians the need for outside therapy to address the student's trauma and behaviors d. identifying a point person at the school that the students can speak to following incidences of trauma- related behaviors

A (objective 0003) Trauma informed practice is an evidence based approach for addressing the needs of students who have experienced various types of trauma. Trauma informed practice is most effective when providers and individuals explore the relationship between the trauma and specific behaviors how the trauma affects the student, and the effects of the trauma- related behaviors on the systems in which the student functions.

A conflict resolution strategy in which students spontaneously enact situations of conflict and analyze the enactment with help of other students and the school social worker is best described as: a.peer mediation b.decision making c. role-playing d. problem solving

c (objective 0003) role playing is a conflict resolution strategy that teachers students empathy and promotes them to look at actions from another point of view. In addition, role playing asks students to adopt another's identity and experience. Students act out a situation and are often asked to assume the role of the person with whom they are in disagreement.

A teacher expresses concerns to the school social worker about a student in the teacher's class. The teacher has discussed the concerns with the student's parents/guardians and has learned that the student has a medical diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). The social worker would like to access the diagnostic information to better understand factors that are affecting the student's learning and progress. To access the records, the social worker must take which of the following actions? a. submitting a records request to the students physician for copies of the records b. meeting with the student directly to discuss the diagnosis and current emotional state c. completing a referral to the school nurse for an informal evaluation of the student d. asking the student's parents/guardians to provide a written release of the records

D (objective 0005) sharing of student information is governed by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA). This legislation requires written permission from parents/guardians/ caregivers to release records for a student under the age of 18. The written release also stipulates when, where and how much of a students records can be shared.

A seventh grade student with emotional disturbance has been receiving instruction full time in a resource room setting .The student has made significant progress toward individualized Education Program (IEP) and Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) goals and the team has determined that the student is ready to receive instruction part time in general education classroom. Which of the following strategies would best facilitate the students transition to the new setting? a. incorporating a reward system in the student's IEP specific to behavior in the general education classroom b. emphasizing the use of positive praise and reinforcement in the general education classroom c. assigning a support staff member to assist the student in the general education classroom d. updating the students IEP to include specific behavior expectations for the general education classroom

D (objective 0006) A change in educational placement can be stressful and anxiety producing for students with emotional disturbance. Updating the students Individualized education Program (IEP) can provide an opportunity to ensure that the student understands what behaviors are expected and appropriate in the new setting and provide strategies for self monitoring behavior.

The primary purpose of administering a diagnostic assessment to a student is to enable educators to: a. measure the student's mastery of specific standards b. detect error patterns in the students performance c. provide data to guide decisions about the students placement d. identify specific knowledge and skills the student may be lacking

D (objective 0006) Diagnostic assessments are a form of pre assessment that enables educators to identify students strengths, needs, knowledge, and skills prior to instruction. Diagnostic assessments are utilized to guide instruction to attend to gaps in students knowledge and skills.

Which of the following assessments types would be most useful for comparing student's performance in relation to one another? a. rating scale b. curriculum based tests c. archival records d. norm referenced tests

D (objective 0006) Norm referenced tests are standardized test that are designed to compare and rank test takers in relation to one another. Norm referenced test compare student scores with the score of other students who have previously taken the same test. This is the norm group or sample group.

A school district has asked school social workers to design an outcome evaluation that demonstrates how school social work services contribute to student success. Which of the following steps would be most effective for the social workers to take first in this process? a. meeting with district staff to further clarify the goals of the evaluation b. collaborating with district and schools staff to develop a multistep action plan. c. determining what types of data should be included in the evaluation d. identifying the core priorities and goals of the district and the schools

D (objective 0008) Most school districts have established plans with goals that have been endorsed by their respective school boards. Some of these goals may match well with school social work services (e.g. increased parent/guardian involvement, involved linkages and collaboration with greater community, increased school attendance) focusing the evaluation on these priorities and goals will illustrate how social work services contribute to the achievement of the goals and student success in general.

A school social worker can most effectively facilitate systems change by taking which of the following initial actions? a. proving professional development to school staff on how organizational dynamics affect schools b. holding open events for a school stakeholders to discuss their views of the school organization c. meeting with individual staff members to discuss their perceptions of the school organization d. engaging in organized analysis to determine the strengths and needs of the school

D (objective 0008) Organizational analysis is most often used to gain an understanding of school structures, which can then allow for modifications and adjustments to strengthen the inner workings of teams and individual within the organization. Knowing the strengths and need of the school enables planning and implantation of change efforts.

which of the following approaches by a school social worker would be most effective in promoting collaboration with teachers? a. establishing social relationships with teachers by interacting with them outside of the school environment b. offering constructive feedback to teachers on the strategies they are suing to support students learning and development c. making a beginning of the year presentation explaining school social work services and how teachers can access them d. demonstrating respect for teacher's instructional expertise while sharing the school social worker's focus on students social/emotional well-being

D (objective 0008) in serving students, teacher and school social workers have different areas of focus. Teachers focus primarily on education while social workers focus primarily on the psychosocial/emotional aspects of the student. Demonstrating understanding of and respect for teachers expertise will facilitate a collaborative partnership between teachers and social workers with a common purpose of helping students. If teachers feel understood and respected in their roles, they are more likely to reciprocate and acknowledge the social worker's areas of expertise.

A school social worker wants to persuade school committee members to support continued funding of school social work services. Which of the following communication techniques would be most effective for this purpose? a. creating a website spotlighting for committee members the benefits of school social work services and the need for funding b. making phone calls to individual committee members to discuss how funding is used for school social worker services c. sending a group e-mail to the committee members outlining planned uses of funding for school social work services d. scheduling in person meetings with school committee members to discuss funding for school social work services and to answer questions

D (objective 0009) Face-to face communication is an effective technique because participants send and receive messages not only through verbal interaction but also facial expression and nonverbal cues. This communication technique supports understanding of subtleties and nuance, particularly when information has many facets. this technique allows for the recipient of the information to ask clarifying questions.

Which of the following interview techniques involves a school social worker asking a set of predetermined questions to a student's teachers and family? a. case interview b. motivational interview c. panel interview d. structured interview

D (objective 0009) In structured interviews, questions are created in advance. Interviewees are asked the same set of questions in the same order. The interviewer in this case the school social worker does not deviate from the standard set of questions or probe further into responses.

Which of the following outcomes is the primary goal of collaborative decision making? a. implementing a standardized problem solving model b. identifying strategies and techniques to promote contributions by a wide range of stakeholders c. enacting change based on reviews of qualitative data d. combining input from multiple parties to determine the best course of action in a given situation

D (objective 0009) the collaborative decision making process enables the entire group to be heard and to participate in decision making. The goal of collaborative decision making is to find common ground, probing issues until everyone's opinions are voiced and understood by the group, and then choosing the best course of action. Collaborative decision making fosters creativity, cooperation and commitment to final decisions

A school social worker is hired as a consultant by a school district to assist with the implementation of a district initiative for school social work service delivery. the initiative represents a significant change from the districts current approach. The social worker can most effectively support this change by giving primary consideration to : a. identifying individuals at each school who will serve as champions of the initiative during it implementation b. outlining for staff members procedures for documenting the implementation of the initiatives at individual schools. c. determining how much resistance to the implementation of the initiative staff are likely to have d. ensuring initial and ongoing support for district staff during the implementation on the initiative

D (objective 0010) In this situation, the school social worker is serving as a change agent in the educational organization. The role of the change agent is to guide and facilitate an effort to effect change. The success of change efforts depends heavily on sufficient training prior to implementation and ongoing support throughout the implementation. Individuals are likely to be less resistant to change if they feel secure in their ability to preform their roles in the change process and if they have access to support at the time and point of need.

school social worker in a school district are planning a professional study group to enhance their knowledge and skills. Which of the following actions is most critical to the success of the group? a. reviewing personal career objectives b. discussing group motivational techniques c. offering positive and constructive feedback d. establishing a regular meeting schedule

D (objective 0011) Establishing a regular meeting schedule is critical to the success of the study group because it provides a way to keep members updated, monitor the group's progress and facilitate decision making. Attending regular meetings promotes member's' accountability to the group.

In a situation where a school social worker's personnel beliefs threaten to interfere with the social worker's ability to provide effective services for a student, the social worker should take which of the following actions? a. asking if the student would like to continue receiving school social work services b. sharing the school social worker's views with the students to ensure transparency c. recommending that the student be released from school social work services d. referring the student to another school social worker who does not have a conflict

D (objective 0011) school social workers have an ethical obligation when working with a student to be aware of and avoid conflicts that interfere with their ability to exercise professional and impartial judgment. IF this becomes impossible =, the school social worker must refer the student to another school social worker who does not have a conflict.

Participation in which of the following professional organizations would be the best choice for a school social worker who want to promote the profession and enhance social/emotional growth and academic outcomes for all the students? a, council on social work education (CSWE) b. American Council for school social work (ACSSW) c. National Association of social Workers (NASW) d. School Social Work Association of America (SSWAA)

D (objective 0011) the mission of the school social work association of America (SSWAA) is to promote the profession and enhance the social/emotional growth academic outcomes fr all students. The SSWAA is the only national organization solely dedicated to these goals.

A second grade teacher is working with the school social worker to address a students ongoing behavioral difficulties. The teacher has collected antecedent-behavioral - consequences (ABC) data and anecdotal information about events that are occurring in the students educational environment. Which of the following actions would be most appropriate for the social worker and teacher to take next? a.holding a conference with the student about problematic behaviors b. implementing a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) with the student c. submitting a referral to have the student evaluated for a behavioral disorder d. conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) for the student

D (objective 0003) A functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a study used to identify possible reasons or functions, for given behaviors. A key component of an FBA is determining what triggers the student's behavior in different situation. The antecedent-behavior- consequences (ABC_ data collected by the teacher helps inform the focus oh the FBA. Once the function of a behavior is determined, appropriate interventions can be developed.

A school social worker is forming a counseling group at the high school fr tenth grade students who are recovering from addiction. During the first meeting with the group, the social worker should focus on which of the following tasks? a. obtaining information from group members related to demographics, mental health, and medical history b. asking group members to share their personal goals in the areas of academics and social/ emotional development c. requisition that group members disclose what they hope to achieve through participation in the group d. setting guidelines with group members regarding ground rules, confidentiality, and expectations for participation

D (objective 0003) During the initial group counseling session, it is important for school social workers to accentuate the importance of ground rules, the boundaries fi confidentiality and the expectations for participation. In, addition it is important for group members to agree to these rules, boundaries, and expectations. This task will facilitate the development of sense of safety and trust for group members.

Several students notify the school social worker that another student has been posting messages on social media that lead them to believe the student may be sducidal. When meeting with the identified student, the social workers must important step is to: a. provide the student with information about suicide b. refer the student to an outside therapist c. inform the student of the classmate's concerns. d.ask directly of the student is suicidal

D (objective 0003) When a school social worker becomes aware of a student who is exhibiting a potential suicidal thinking or behavior, the social worker should meet immediately with the student and conduct a suicide risk assessment. Part of the standard practice in a suicide risk assessment is directly asking the student if the student is suicidal.

A school social worker is working to develop linkages between the school and community agencies that provide mental health services for student and their families. the social worker wants to ensure that the services provided by these agencies meet a standard of care. Which of the following procedure would be most appropriate to implement in order to address this goal? a. obtaining copies of interagency referral forms b. meeting with agency directors to explain expectations c. gaining the principals approval of each agency d. developing a statement of assurance for each agency

D (objective 0004) Statements of assurance are utilized to document standards of practice and ensure that all parties involved in the provision of joint services or other collaboration agree to adhere to the standards. Statements of assurance help ensure equality and continuity of care.

A school social worker wants to obtain assessment data for an eleventh grade student with a traumatic Brian injury. the social worker specifically wants to gather information about the skills needed to function in daily life. Which of the following assessment tools would be most appropriate for this purpose? a. personality inventory b. cognitive abilities assessment c. behavioral rating scale d. adaptive behavior assessment

D (objective 0005) Adaptive behavior includes age- appropriate behavior such as life skills, social skills, and personal responsibility, which individuals need to live independently and function in life. An adaptive behavior assessment helps identify strengths and needs that must be addressed to improve a students chance of success in school and in life.

A school social worker has been learning a weekly social skills group for middle school students. The students in the group have achieved the group's goals and made significant progress over the course fo the school year. The social worker has determined that it would be appropriate to terminate the group services in several weeks. To increase the likelihood of a successful actions prior to termination? a. discussing outside mental health resources with the group and submitting referrals as needed b. acknowledging various reactions to termination and reasoning group members that they are ready c. reviewing the content discussed each session and reminding the group of confidentiality expectations d. reminding group members of the progress they have made and discussing termination early in the process

D (objective 0004) termination is the final stage of group counseling. The way in which the school social worker closes a counseling relationship can have a significant effect on student's views of the experience and the likelihood of practicing what has been learned. Participants may be fearful of loosing the support of the group, so the social work should remind them of the progress they have made and engage them in discussions of what termination will look like well before services actually end.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) which of the following sets of symptoms is associated with a diagnosis of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)? a. intense relationships and unstable self image b. reduced feelings of pleasure and flat affect c. depressive episodes and decreased activity levels d. persistent thought and repetitive behaviors

D (objective 0005) A diagnosis of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) includes the presence of obsessions, compulsions both. Obsessions are persistent ideas, thought, impulses or images that are intrusive and cause anxiety and distress. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that are carried out to reduce or prevent anxiety or distress and are perceived by the individual to prevent a dreaded event or situation.

A teacher asks the school social worker for advice on how to promote the success of classroom behavioral expectations. The teacher has worked with students to define appropriate behaviors for various activities as well as consequences, both positive and negative, associated with each expectation. Which of the following additional steps should the social worker suggest the teacher take? a. developing a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) for students based on the expectations b. soliciting recommendations for additional expectations from students' parents/guardians c. referring students to the school principal when they do not follow expectations d. creating a handout of the expectations to provide to student's parents/guardians

D ( objective 0001) Classroom behavioral expectations are designed to encourage positive behaviors and prevent problem behaviors. It is important to communicate the expectations to student's parents/guardians so that they are aware and can provide behavioral support at home as needed.

A school social worker in a high school advocates for the incorporation of volunteerism into the school curriculum. Which of the following outcomes is the most important benefit of this place for students? a. relating instructional activities to everyday activities b. enhancing understanding of various community resources c. encouraging postive interpersonal interactions d. promoting the development of empathy and compassion

D ( objective 0007) Volunteerism helps students understand how others live. Volunteer activities help students develop empathy, and compassion stems from empathy. Thinking about others helps students put their own challenges in perspective. With the right volunteer opportunities, students from from an understanding oh how they fit into society to how they can help solve societal problems.

A first grade student raises a hand to answer a teacher's question. The teacher calls on the student to answer and then compliments the student on the answer. The student continues to raise a hand during future lessons. This scenario most clearly illustrates which of the following theoretical concepts? a. social constructivism b.cognitive equilibrium c.functional contextualism d. operant conditioning

D (objective 0001) operant conditioning is the principle that behavior occurs as the result of consequences or reinforcement. In the scenario, the student raises a hand to answer the teacher's question (the operant) and the teacher compliments the student on the answer (the reinforcement), resulting in a continuation of the desired behavior.

A school social worker can provide the most effective foundation for a new English learner's academic success by emphasizing which of the following goals? a. meeting weekly with the student to discuss progress b. verifying that the student can navigate social situations c. providing regular updates to the student's family d. ensuring that the student feels safe and supported

D (objective 0002) English learners require a safe and supportive environment in order to focus on understanding learning expectations, behavioral norms, and school and classroom procedures. A supportive and safe environment facilitates the student's acclimation to a new culture so that the student can devote metal and emotional energy to the learning process.

A new student enrolls in a school midway through the school year. The student has recently arrived in the United States and speaks very little English. The student's teacher asks the school social worker how to help the student feel comfortable in the new environment. Which of the following initial strategies would be most effective for this purpose? a. arranging for the student to receive tutoring services during the second- language acquisition process b. meeting with the student's family to share resources in the community that could provide supports c. researching information online about how to work appropriately with students who are new to the country d. implementing activities to sensitize the other students in the class to the potential challenges the new student may face.

D (objective 0002) For students who are new to the country and who speak very little english, it is very important for staff to ensure that they feel welcomed and accepted in the various school settings (e.g. classroom, cafeteria, bus) Sensitizing the student's new classmates to the potential challenges the student may face is an effective approach for promoting classmates to be considerate and supportive of their new peer.