Issue 4: Misinterpretation of Instructions
Instructions such as "Keep off the grass", or "Keep your hands to yourself" may seem easy enough to follow for most people, but for individuals with Autism may seem too broad. It is important to give specific instructions otherwise they may be misinterpreted. Remember that individuals with Autism see language in an overly literal way, which'...may result in a reciprocal misunderstanding- we may perceive the literal response of the individual as impudent or odd'. (Ganguly, 2013,p.11). As individuals experience difficulties in the comprehension of language and understanding abstract concepts, it is vital for instructions to be "explicit and not assume that the context will help to clarify meaning." (Dodd, 2005, p.141). Christopher sometimes gets in trouble because he takes things too literally, and sometimes instructions are too complex, or misplaced for him to understand. Clear, precise instructions placed all around the classroom would be very useful.
(See Artefacts: 4 Classroom Instructions).