Daniel Hanna, Christopher Bowley, Rowan Hine, Jacob Burls et al… Autism

Autism is a brain development condition causing weak social skills and communication difficulties Aspergers label is used sometimes for a high functioning autistic They struggle to understand social rules and body language They are usually desperate to get it right but know they often get it wrong and say or do the wrong thing They may get stressed by noise, light or smell much more than the rest of us They may call out or get upset much more so than the rest of us

Autistic students Dislike change Team games or group activities are a problem Choices are a problem Becomes anxious Can react violently Warn of changes, like a room change or task change Put them in a group Give them time Give them space Remember they are trying to get it right

Social rules can be taught and can help autistic students “The rule is…” Not “I want you to…” Explain quietly why insulting or tactless comments may upset others Be direct with questioning, tell me the first task… Once a task has been set do not extend it but start a new task Set boundaries for a research task, e.g. research two planets rather than the planetary system… Allow the student to work in a quiet place

LSA Feedback on Learning Student nameObservations LSA Feedback on Learning LSA Name: Date: Class: Unit: