About autism 

Autism is a condition which impacts the way a student may experience and interact with their environment and others in their environment. Every student on the autism spectrum is different, there is no ‘one size fits all’. This means that the characteristics of autism may differ significantly from one student to another.
 

Strengths

Some students may have a strong understanding of the physical world, and demonstrate strengths in engineering (such as mechanics or robotics) and mathematics as a result. 

Students with a strong interest in a particular topic may have learned lots of information about that topic. They may also demonstrate creativity when completing tasks that link to their interests.

Students may be less bound by conventions, and so may offer interesting or novel ideas. For example, some students in late primary may come up with highly original metaphors if prompted, rather than copy existing metaphors.

Some students may have good visual perceptual skills. They might be good at visual searches and recognition. Recognising different sounds and music can be a strength.

Example of practice: autism

Learn about Sandeep's experience in the classroom.


School Excellence Framework alignment

Wellbeing, Curriculum, Effective classroom practice

Australian Professional Standards for Teachers alignment

Standard 1: Know students and how they learn

Audience

Primary teachers

Purpose

Strategies to support students on the autism spectrum. Including: Evidence-based practices, best practice tips, curriculum considerations and other considerations for teachers of students on the autism spectrum.

Reviewed

November 2021. Share your feedback here