Using Interests to Build Engagement

• Restricted Interests as Motivators: Improving Academic Engagement and Outcomes

  Ten ways to build a student's interest into reading, writing, math, and science. Uses older terms for interests.

  TEACHING Exceptional Children PlusStrategy guideTry tomorrow

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• Power Cards

  Download a blank template and examples that use a student's interest to teach a three to five step skill.

  OCALITemplate or formUse with a studentOne student

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• Power Card

  Follow six steps to make a wallet-size card that links a skill to the student's interest.

  Texas SPED SupportQuick readUse with a studentOne student

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• Preference and Reinforcement Surveys

  Download surveys, including a version for older students, to find out what a student enjoys.

  OCALITemplate or formUse with a studentOne student

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• Motivating Students Who Have Autism Spectrum Disorders

  Read how to start from strengths, preferred topics, and choices. An older article with ideas that still apply.

  Indiana Resource Center for AutismQuick readLearn more

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• A Systematic Review of the Effects of Choice on Academic Outcomes for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

  Read a short summary of eight studies on offering choices. The full article is behind a paywall.

  CSESAResearch summaryLearn more

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• Autism (Part 1), Page 7: Instructional Practices

  See how to weave a student's interests into instruction and adjust rewards to fit preferences.

  IRIS CenterQuick readLearn more

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• Special Interests

  A brief explainer on building a student's focused interest into academics and positive behavior support. Not specific to high school. Captions available.

  OCALIVideoTry tomorrowOne student

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These resources are shared for professional learning and planning. They are meant to inform your professional judgment, not replace it. Each student's IEP and your district, state and federal requirements always come first. Listing a resource here is not an endorsement by Layered Education. This is educational information only, not legal advice.