Organize a field trip to a classical music concert. Given the students direct exposure to live classical music will help familiarize them with the look and feel of an orchestra, symphony, string quartet or whatever form of classical music. Students may enjoy the experience of the concert, and it may be a novel experience for those who have never attended such a concert before.
Show pictures of instruments typically used in classical music. Help the students identify the instruments verbally and form associations between the pictures and the corresponding words. Examples could include the tuba, violin, cello or oboe. Introduce a variety of instrument types.
Play classical recordings in the classroom. Pair the recordings with a brief description or history of the piece or a brief biography of the composer. Standard recordings will give students direct exposure to the music and the accompanying lesson will help them learn the significance of classical music in society.
Present classical music-themed movies in the classroom. Depending on the level of functionality of your special education students, they may enjoy and appreciate films that are based on classical music or composers. For example, "Amadeus" will introduce them to the music of Mozart in a fun, easy way.