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Unlocking Problem-Solving Superpowers: A Journey for High School Students with Autism

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Lesson Plan

Unlocking Problem-Solving Superpowers Lesson Plan

Empower high school students with autism to enhance their problem-solving skills using structured activities and reflective questions.

Refining problem-solving abilities helps students tackle everyday challenges and builds confidence for academic and personal success.

Audience

High School Students with Autism

Time

45 minutes

Approach

Engage through interactive activities and guided reflection.

Prep

Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up and Introduction

5 minutes

  • Begin with a brief discussion about what problem-solving means
  • Ask students to share one challenge they recently overcame

Step 2

Main Activity

20 minutes

  • Introduce the interactive Problem-Solving Activity where students work in small groups
  • Encourage students to use strategies discussed during the warm-up to tackle a guided problem scenario
  • Circulate to support and scaffold when necessary

Step 3

Worksheet Work

10 minutes

  • Distribute the Problem-Solving Worksheet for individual practice
  • Ask students to complete the worksheet addressing specific steps of approaching problem-solving situations

Step 4

Review and Quiz

5 minutes

  • Review answers from the worksheet with the class
  • Administer a brief Problem-Solving Quiz to reinforce key concepts

Step 5

Video and Reflection

5 minutes

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Worksheet

Problem-Solving Worksheet

This worksheet is designed to help you break down problems and apply effective strategies to solve them. Read each question carefully, and use the space provided to write your answers.

1. Understanding the Problem

Describe a challenge or problem you have recently encountered. What made it challenging?






2. Identifying the Key Components

List the important parts of the problem. What are the key factors you need to consider?






3. Brainstorming Solutions

Write down at least three possible ways to address the problem. Don't worry about which one is best yet – just list your ideas.






4. Choosing a Strategy

Select one of the solutions you listed. Explain why you think this is the best option.






5. Reflection

After solving the problem, reflect on the process. What did you learn about your problem-solving skills? What would you do differently next time?






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Activity

Interactive Problem-Solving Activity

Overview

In this activity, you will work in small groups to solve a real-life problem scenario. Use the strategies discussed in the lesson to approach the challenge collaboratively. This exercise is designed to help you think critically, share ideas, and develop effective problem-solving techniques.

Activity Steps

  1. Form Groups: Divide into small groups of 3-4 students. Make sure everyone has a role (e.g., facilitator, note-taker, presenter).
  2. Scenario Assignment: Each group will receive a problem scenario. Example scenarios could include:
    • A group project where a key resource is unexpectedly unavailable.
    • A community challenge such as organizing a school event with a limited budget.
    • A hypothetical situation involving a family dispute over chores.
  3. Discussion: Within your group, discuss the scenario and identify the following:
    • What is the problem? (Context and key challenges)





    • What are the key factors to consider? (Time, resources, constraints)





    • What possible solutions can you come up with? Brainstorm at least three ideas.





  4. Strategy Selection: Discuss and choose one solution your group believes is the best. Explain your reasoning collectively.
  5. Prepare to Share: Summarize your group's process and solution. Be ready to present your findings to the class.

Tips for Success

  • Listen Actively: Every member's input is valuable.


  • Stay on Task: Keep focused on the problem at hand.


  • Be Open-Minded: Consider all ideas before deciding on the best solution.


Reflection

After the activity, take a few minutes to reflect on the following questions individually:

  • What did you learn from working in a group?





  • How did discussing different ideas help you see new ways of solving the problem?





  • What will you do differently next time you face a problem?





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Quiz

Problem-Solving Quiz

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