Misconceptions and Myths Surrounding ASD

UNIT 2: LET'S GET STARTED...

Objectives

Describe common myths and misconceptions surrounding ASD

Provide informed explanation to challenge those misconceptions

Materials You Will Need

1-2 scrap piece(s) of paper

pen/pencil

Beginning Activities

Say someone told you that this child has been diagnosed with ASD... how would this affect your thinking towards the child? Would it make you look at him differently? Or wouldn't it? What are some things that come to mind? Take about 5 minutes to jot down a few thoughts on a scrap piece of paper.

Taking A Closer Look...

This unit is all about discussing the common misconceptions and myths of ASD. This activity was to get you thinking about how the label as being Autistic or "on the Spectrum" can influence people's ways of thinking that aren't necessarily true. The thoughts you wrote down are examples of preconceived judgments that people derive by just hearing the term: Autism Spectrum Disorder. Why do you think you think you wrote down those thoughts? How might these preconceived judgements affect your teaching practice? Would it negatively affect your teaching practice? Why or why not? Hmmmmm....

What are the Misconceptions and Myths Surrounding ASD?

Below is a link to an article that has been written by a mother who's son has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Her son may look familiar because his picture is the one above! She discusses 6 misconceptions she has faced throughout her son's life since he has been diagnosed. Click the link to read the article and to identify the misconceptions and myths regarding ASD as well as the truth behind them. Consider these questions while you read:

1. What are the misconceptions people may have regarding ASD?

2. Why might people think this way?

3. What is the truth behind these misconceptions?

Article link: http://shine.yahoo.com/parenting/8220-doesn-8217-t-look-autistic-8221-other-214600522.html

Be sure to click the BACK button to get back to the course!

Reflection Questions

Consider these questions for reflection...

1. What are the misconceptions people may have regarding ASD?

2. Why might people think this way?

3. What is the truth behind these misconceptions?

4. Why might it be important for teachers to be aware of these misconceptions?

Additional Resources

If you are interested in learning about more misconceptions regarding ASD, below is a link to a fabulous website that discusses the myths and truths of ASD. Be sure to hit the BACK button or open the link in a new tab to get back to the course!

http://www.autismresourcefoundation.org/info/info.misconceptions.html

K-W-L Chart

Congrats! You made it through Unit 2! Proceed to the K-W-L chart to document what you have learned this unit then proceed to Unit 3 by clicking the 'Unit 3' link at the bottom of the K-W-L chart page.

Link to K-W-L Chart: K-W-L Chart for ASD

Link to: Unit 3- Effective Classroom Strategies That Support Children with ASD