Setting the stage for successful inclusion of students with autism spectrum disorder: Supports to generate and process mathematical language

Abstract

Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are included in the general education classroom more often than ever before. Despite mathematical strengths and early success, these students experience poor outcomes (academic and employment) compared to their typically developing peers. The language of mathematics increases in complexity, use, and expectations as students age. To facilitate the development of mathematical proficiency for students with ASD, teachers can incorporate instructional strategies to support language processing and use in mathematics. This manuscript provides practical advice for teachers who want to support math language for students with ASD in the general education environment including (a) the importance of these supports, (b) specific recommendations, (c) visual and descriptive examples, and (d) additional resources.