Science and autism spectrum disorder at P level 7

P Level 7 has further vocabulary expectations, and introduces the use of everyday words in a scientific context. The pupil with Asperger’s syndrome may find this confusing.

This P level takes further the scientific thinking that goes with observation by developing the concept of properties of the environment.

Scientific recording is introduced at a very basic level.

Also read about the main challenges for children with autism and Asperger’s syndrome across subject areas and suggestions for inclusion.

You can:

• Identify everyday words that will become part of the scientific vocabulary in advance and introduce them in that context through practical examples. For example, the concept of before and after can be reinforced in the classroom: "Before you go to lunch please wash your hands", "We tidy up after we have finished gluing."
• Support evaluation work. The pupil with Asperger’s syndrome will find criticism and praise difficult. Try to depersonalise evaluation so the pupil does not feel criticised, so for example say: "It’s the way the experiment went, it’s very interesting to see what has happened and how can we make it better?"
• Record work in cartoon or picture form, using symbols if relevant. The pupil may find this easiest on a computer.