Behavior Basics
What does ABC stand for in behavior analysis?
Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence
What does the “C” in ABC stand for?
Consequence – what happens after the behavior
What is a prompt?
A cue or assistance to help a student perform a skill.
What’s the goal of fading prompts?
For the student to respond independently.
What is one example of a visual teaching method?
Using pictures, videos, or written words.
What is Behavior?
Anything observable and measurable a person does
Name one way you can prevent challenging behavior? (antecedent examples)
Give choices, set clear expectations, use visuals, etc
Name three different types of prompts you might use.
What are verbal, gestural, and visual prompts?
Why is it important not to over-prompt a student?
It can lead to prompt dependency and prevent independence.
What’s one way to get a student’s attention before teaching?
What’s one way to get a student’s attention before teaching? Say their name, get eye contact, or use a preferred item to engage them.
What are the 4 common functions of behavior?
Escape, Attention, Tangible, Sensory
What does “function of behavior” mean?
The reason or purpose behind a behavior.
What does it mean to fade a prompt?
Gradually reduce the support until the student does it independently
What is the difference between a model prompt and a gestural prompt?
A model prompt shows the task (e.g., clapping), while a gestural prompt points or gestures toward the correct response.
When should you switch up your teaching method?
If the student isn’t responding, showing frustration, or not making progress.
Why is consistency important when responding to behavior?
It helps the student learn what to expect and reinforces learning.
Give an example of how to teach a replacement behavior for escape-motivated aggression.
Teach the student to request a break using visuals or gestures
What does “prompt dependency” mean?
The student waits for a prompt instead of responding independently.
Explain how to use time delay as a prompting strategy.
Wait a few seconds before giving the prompt to allow the student a chance to respond independently.
What does it mean to “embed learning into a student’s day”?
Incorporate skill practice into routines and natural settings.
Your student throws a toy when told its cleanup time. What might be the function of the behavior?
Escape or Tangible (context determines best answer)
Describe how you would support a student whose behavior is maintained by sensory input.
Provide sensory breaks, sensory toys, or movement before behavior occurs.
You start with hand-over-hand to teach tooth brushing. What is one way to fade the prompt over time
What is moving to a partial physical prompt, then modeling?
Describe how to combine reinforcement with prompting.
Reinforce correct responses immediately after the prompt is followed to strengthen learning.
How can you adjust instruction for a student with limited verbal skills?
Use visual supports, gestures, AAC devices, or model responses.