Author Description

This teaching guide combines a multisensory approach to teaching children and adults with autism through a structured teaching model for direct instruction. Part 1, divided into three sections, discusses important links to learning: improving communication with multisensory techniques, using practical behavior management techniques to help students learn, and using a structured teaching model for direct instruction. Part 2 applies the links and explains how to teach six groups of specific skills: skills that prepare students for learning; cooperation skills; learning by imitating and matching; independent learning skills; basic communication skills; and higher-level communication skills. Each chapter has a step-by-step model for teaching the first skill, then continues with tips and guidelines for teaching the other skills in the chapter. The teaching model includes seven steps: stop; look; listen; watch me do it; let me help you; now you show me; and you got it! Part 3 provides information that goes beyond the basics. Chapter 16 focuses on ways to help students generalize their skills, and Chapter 17 asks and answers some common questions and addresses frequently encountered challenges. Appendices include references and recommended resources, reproducible forms, and picture symbols. (CR)