This document provides an introduction to a unit on supporting individuals with autism. It includes the learning outcomes, which focus on understanding autism characteristics and how to effectively support those with autism. It defines autism terminology and discusses the triad of impairments in social communication, social interaction, and restricted behaviors and interests that are core to autism. Learners will watch a video about an autistic child's difficulties and create a poster on the triad of impairments.

1. L3 SILD LD310
Understand how to
support individuals on the
Autistic Spectrum
Lesley Cherry

2. Today’s Aims: Introduction to Unit
Explore -What is Autism?
Objectives:
Introduction to unit
What is Autism?
Watch a video to examine a child/young
person’s difficulties
Devise a poster ‘The Triads of
impairment’

3. Introduction to unit:
Learning Outcomes (LO):
 Understand the main characteristics of autistic spectrum conditions
 Understand how autistic spectrum conditions can impact on the lives of
individuals and those around them.
 Understand different theories and concepts about autism.
 Understand the legal and policy framework that underpins good practice in
the support of individuals with autistic spectrum conditions.
 Understand how to achieve effective communication with individuals with an
autistic spectrum condition
 Understand how to support individuals with an autistic spectrum condition.

4. What is Autism?
 Terminology- Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)- Autism/
Asperger’s/ Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome (PDA),
 Causes-Developmental delay/Dysfunction brain/ new
research/Genetic involvement (complex),
 Difficulties- Social, Sensory, Combination learning difficulties, The
‘Triad of Impairment’
National Autistic Society (NAS) http://www.autism.org.uk/

5. Autism
A is for Autism Video
Activity:
 List obsessive behaviours shown in the video.
 List obsessive interests shown in the video.
 List areas of sensory difficulty.
 List areas of difficulty mentioned at school/ nursery.
5

6. Let’s devise a poster:
The Triads of impairment
Children and young people with Autism exhibit , to a greater degree
a Triad of Impairment which is a defining characteristic of Autism.
Implications of learning:
 Language/ communication
Language impairment across all models of communication (Speech,
intonation, gesture, facial expression and other body language)
 Social
Difficulties with social relationships, poor social timing, lack of social
empathy, rejection of normal body contact.
 Rigidity and inflexibility of thought process (Imagination)
Resistance to change, obsessional and ritualistic behaviour.
(Lorna Wing)

7. Summary:
Qs?

8. Next week:
 Define the meaning of the term “spectrum” in relation to autism by reference
to the concepts of sub condition and individual variations within the Autistic
Spectrum
 Discuss and describe other conditions that maybe associated with the autistic
spectrum