20XX Sample Footer Text 2 Content Defining Autism Spectrum Disorder The DSM-5 IV Criteria for autism Explaining Autism as a Spectrum, the pictures for illustrations. The Characteristics of ASD Causes OF ASD. Educational challenge Classroom strategies that can be use to support learners with ASD. References
Autism Spectrum Disorder Defination Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be defined as a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behaviour of a learner. (Haleem, 2025) Its severity varies amongst individuals. 20XX Sample Footer Text 3
DSM-5 IV CRITERIA FOR AUTISM According to the DSM-5, autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Individuals with ASD exhibit a wide range of cognitive and functional abilities, from exceptional strengths to significant challenges. This means some may require substantial support and intensive assistance, others might need only minimal accommodations, reflecting the spectrum’s diverse nature (American Psychiatric Association, 1980). 20XX Verywell Health. (2024). 4
Autism is a spectrum Because it is experienced in different ways. The symptoms, abilities, and characteristics of autism are expressed in many different combinations and degrees of severity. Three factors contribute to the spectrum nature of autism : Children with autism may differ in level of intellectual ability, from profound intellectual disability to above-average intelligence Children with autism vary in the severity of their language problems The behavior of children with autism changes with age 20XX Sample Footer Text 5 Core deficit if ASD
20XX Pinterest (2019) 6 Social impairment
20XX Autism360 (2019) 7 Communication impairment illustration
Characteristics of Autism 20XX Sample Footer Text 8 Delayed speech and Language. Social communication difficulties. Repetitive behaviors and preferences for routines (Haleem,2025). Sensory sensitivity to sound, light, or textures (Amstutz,2012). Different ways of learning and processing information
Causes of ASD There is no exact specific cause of ASD, but the following can be the contributing factors, Genetics plays an important role, the fragile X Syndrome (Lord et al., 2018). Environmental influences, such as prenatal health, may contribute. Autism can be caused by some prescription drugs taken during pregnancy, such as thalidomide and valproic acid ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Children who have a sibling with ASD can also have it, and also those who are born to older parents. 20XX Sample Footer Text 9
Treatment There is no specific cure for autism, but the following interventions can be done: Behavioural and educational therapies, like applied behaviour analysis(ABA) and social skills training ( Mangalabathi , 2021). Speech and language therapy to improve communication Occupational therapy to help with daily living skills and sensory Assistive technology (communication devices and apps) Medical support, such as some medications that may help manage symptoms like anxiety or hyperactivity. (Mohamed,2021)
Educational challenges for learners with ASD. Difficulty working in groups and interacting with peers. Struggles with verbal and non-verbal communication. Difficulty adapting to changes and routines. May experience sensory overload in noisy or crowded classrooms. 20XX Autism Classroom Resources–Christine Reeve. (2023) 11
Classroom strategies to support learners with ASD. Use a visual schedule and structured routines Provide clear, simple instructions Allow extra time for processing information Create sensory-friendly spaces in the classroom. Use assistive technology such as communication apps (Yoingco,2025). Encourage peer support and inclusive group work. 20XX Sample Footer Text 12