Asperger’s Syndrome! By Mariela Borrego

Asperger’s Syndrome: What to Know O Asperger’s Syndrome is part of the autism spectrum. This condition is characterized mostly by problems with socialization and is similar to autism. People with Asperger’s, or “aspies,” will have a hard time working with other people. As “aspies” grow older, they’ll gradually attempt to build their social skills. The following are some of the symptoms present in those with Asperger’s Syndrome. O Autism Spectrum: Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, pervasive development disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), Rett’s disorder, and childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD)

Symptoms O Difficulty socializing with others O Can’t adjust to changes in routine tasks. O Appear to lack empathy O Tend to take jokes seriously O Over-attached to particular topics, such as trains, food, or Einstein’s research. O Keen senses, especially hearing O Aspies can be sensitive to loud noises.

A Teenage Aspie O When an aspie becomes a teenager, he/she can overcome some of the symptoms listed in the previous slide. However, they’ll still have a hard time socializing and trying to “fit in” with the rest of the crowd, even if they disagree with some popular things out there today.

Asperger’s People and Math Class O What can teachers do to help a student with Asperger’s, based on the info already presented?

O It’s a good idea for students with Asperger’s to have personalized instruction given to them. These students can also benefit in smaller classrooms to get this personalized education. O It’s also important to maintain a routine lesson for the students. If there’s a sudden change in how the teacher presents her lesson, the “aspie” may become worried and unable to adjust to a change in the routine.

O For discussions, Asperger’s students must stay focused on the presented topic. Otherwise, if the “aspie’s” interest gets him/her to speak off topic during class, time will be lost, and the “aspie” will cause a distraction to his/her peers. O It’s been shown that other students can learn and appreciate an “aspie” classmate when they help each other out. When working together, an “aspie” can teach other students to accept the challenges he/she faces. As for teachers, they have to supervise any group work like this to make sure the “aspie” can receive help on interacting with classmates.

Video O The following video is an episode from the famous kids’ cartoon, “Arthur.” O R0yk R0yk

Your Classmate May Have Asperger’s! O As a person with Asperger’s, I’ve dealt with socialization issues everywhere. Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, I had a tough time making new friends. All I wanted was to be with people my age I can trust. As my classmates and I grew, people started to wonder why I was so shy and quiet most of the time. I wanted to know that, too. Then, I was formally diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome shortly before my 12 th birthday. Since that diagnosis, I tried to work on my social skills. Year by year, I improved these skills and gained more respect than ever. As of now, I continue to struggle with meeting new people and working with them. Don’t worry, friends. Give me time.

Famous People with Asperger’s Syndrome O Satoshi Tajiri: creator of “Pokemon” O Heather Kuzmich: a model who appeared on “America’s Next Top Model” O Adam Young: founder of “Owl City” O Jacob Barnett: at age 12, expanded Einstein’s Theory of Relativity O For more information on Jacob Barnett, go to old-genius-expands-einsteins-theory-of-relativity/

Remember, We DON’T Want…

O We deserve a good buddy to work with.

Bibliography O Fattig, Michelle. "Famous People with Aspergers Syndrome." Famous People with Asperger's Syndrome. N.p., 28 Dec Web. 13 Nov O Flynn, Susan. "6 Inclusion Strategies for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders." Inclusion Strategies forStudents with Autism Spectrum Disorders. N.p., n.d.Web. 12 Nov

Bibliography, cont’d O Inc, Healthwise. "Asperger's Syndrome Symptoms in Children, Teens, Adults." WebMD. WebMD, 03 Jan Web. 11 Nov