Learning goal

To develop an understanding of autism and Asperger’s syndrome

Think, pair, share

With the person next to you, discuss and write down everything you know about: Autism, and Asperger’s syndrome

Prepare to share your answers with the class

Symptoms of Autism spectrum disorder

Fall into three main categories: Social interaction Communication Behaviour

Symptoms explained

Social interactions: Difficulty forming normal relationships Often respond inappropriately in social situations

Communication: Often have no language or limited language skills Use language in an unusual way Use formal, mechanical and monotone speech Have trouble with the rules of conversation

(listening and then talking)

Symptoms explained

Behaviours: Limited range of behaviours, which they tend to

repeat (comforting) – arranging things in a straight line, etc

Like routine, find change distressing

Autism and intelligence

MOST individuals with autism have a low level of intellectual functioning

SOME, however, have an exceptional ability in a very specific area

SOME autistic individuals have normal or above normal intelligence, but these individuals usually have a less severe kind of autism

Autism spectrum disorder

Contemporary psychologists use the term Autism Spectrum Disorder in relation to autism. The word ‘spectrum’ is used because of the wide range of individual differences in the experience of autism.

No two people with autism are alike in the specific symptoms they experience and the severity of their symptoms.

Asperger’s Syndrome is one kind of autistic disorder.

Asperger’s Syndrome

Generally, someone with Asperger’s Syndrome has many of the symptoms of autism, but they do not have the same difficulties with language.

Individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome are also more likely to have normal or above normal intelligence.

However, anyone with Autism Spectrum Disorder is: Delayed in their development Has significant difficulties participating in everyday life, and Requires sensitive understanding, specialist support and intervention

Your understanding

Complete the sheet with the title ‘My understanding of Asperger’s syndrome at the start of the unit’ – hold onto this sheet!

Watch the catalyst program ‘The World of Asperger’s’

Answer the questions in your notebook, including the research task