FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Resource to Guarantee Exam Success!

The correct answer is focused on the specific criteria that are fundamental to identifying an intellectual disability. Intellectual disabilities are characterized by significant limitations in both cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior. Cognitive functioning refers to abilities such as reasoning, problem-solving, abstract thinking, and learning. Adaptive behavior encompasses a person's practical, everyday skills needed to live independently, which includes areas like communication, social skills, and personal care.

Identifying these deficits is crucial because they affect a person’s overall quality of life and ability to navigate daily activities. The emphasis on cognitive and adaptive functioning ensures that individuals who may require support can be accurately diagnosed and receive appropriate interventions.

The other options presented do not relate to the criteria for intellectual disabilities. Academic improvements, for example, would not be relevant to defining the diagnosis since individuals with intellectual disabilities may not necessarily show academic progress, and such improvements are outside the scope of defining the disability itself. Similarly, high levels of creativity and strong leadership abilities do not align with the criteria and do not reflect limitations associated with intellectual disabilities. These could be seen as strengths rather than deficits, emphasizing that the identification of intellectual disabilities revolves around areas of significant challenge rather than skills or competencies.