Final answer:
Learning disabilities are neurological disorders that affect specific cognitive abilities, not signs of low intelligence. The disability related factor most commonly linked to low academic performance is negative expectations for their own achievement. Proper support and accommodations are crucial.
Step-by-step explanation:
Learning disabilities are often misunderstood and can be mistaken for a lack of intelligence or effort. It's essential to recognize that these disabilities are neurological disorders that specifically impact certain areas of cognition, such as language, reading, or arithmetic, rather than signs of low intelligence. Examples include dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, each affecting different cognitive abilities like processing written words, handwriting, or mathematical operations, respectively.
Answering the student's question, among the listed options, the factor most commonly linked to low academic performance in students with learning disabilities is b. Negative expectations for their own achievement. This psychological aspect can significantly influence a student's performance and is a key area to address when providing support to individuals with learning disabilities.
It's critical to ensure that educational support systems recognize and provide the necessary accommodations for students with these disabilities, not only to enhance their academic performance but to foster a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.