DISABILITIES:
AUTISM

AUTISM LESSON

Directions:

Print the Autism reading comprehension passage and questions (see below).

Students should read the passage silently, then answer the questions.  Teachers may also use the text as part of a classroom lesson plan.

Lesson Excerpt

Autism is a disorder that often makes it difficult for a person to communicate with and interact with others.  A child typically shows signs of autism before three years old, although this is not always the case.  Parents normally become concerned when their toddler does not start talking, is unresponsive, or does not interact with others.  Toddlers who have autism do not develop normal speech.  It may also seem like they are deaf even though hearing test results are normal.   

There are many different levels of autism.  Some people with autism are very low functioning and need others to help them with nearly everything.  Other individuals are very high functioning and self-sufficient.   Most people with autism have also been diagnosed with Mental Retardation.  This diagnosis can range from Mild to Profound Mental Retardation.  Many people with autism can function well in a regular classroom. 

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