My Strengths
True or False: People with autism may have strong interests that help them become experts in certain areas.
True - Many individuals with autism have strong interests and deep focus, which can make them very knowledgeable in specific areas.
What does “rigid thinking” mean?
Rigid thinking means having a hard time being flexible, trying new things, or changing your mind.
What can you say when someone has a different idea than yours?
“That’s different than my idea—let’s talk about both and see what works.”
What might a classmate do if they’re frustrated during a group activity?
Stop talking, sigh loudly, frown, avoid eye contact, or cross their arms.
What does compromise mean?
It means finding a middle ground where everyone gives up a little to reach a shared solution.
Name one way a strong interest can help during a group project.
A student can contribute specialized knowledge, creativity, or focus to the task.
True or False: Only people with autism can have rigid thinking.
False. Anyone can have rigid thinking sometimes.
What phrase could you use if a group decision changes your plan?
“I wasn’t expecting that, but I’ll try to go with it.”
Why is it important to notice how others are feeling in a group?
So you can respond with support or adjust your behavior to keep teamwork going smoothly.
True or False: A good compromise means everyone gets exactly what they want.
False. Compromise means everyone gives a little to make things work for the group.
Give an example of a repetitive routine that could help someone stay organized in a group task.
Making a checklist or following the same steps in a specific order during each meeting.
Name a sign that someone is “stuck” during a group activity.
Refusing to change the plan, becoming upset when things are different, or insisting on doing something only one way.
What can you say to help include someone else’s idea?
“Let’s figure out how we can use both ideas.”
If a teammate seems confused, what can you do?
Offer to explain again, ask if they need help, or check in respectfully.
Give an example of compromise in a group project.
One person chooses the topic this time, and the other person picks the design next time.
Explain how a special interest could help with a science, history, or art project.
The student might contribute extra facts, visual details, or ideas that others didn’t think of.
Give an example of a rule or routine someone might follow too strictly during group work.
Needing to go first every time, always using the same materials, or sticking to a personal script.
What’s a polite way to ask for a short break when feeling overwhelmed in group work?
“I need a quick break. I’ll come back in a minute ready to help.”
Name one nonverbal sign that someone is enjoying the group work.
Smiling, nodding, sitting forward, or actively participating.
Why can compromise be hard for people who like routines or control?
Because change can feel uncomfortable, and they may struggle to give up their usual way of doing things.
Describe how noticing patterns (a common strength) could help a group catch mistakes.
The student might spot repeated errors in data, spelling patterns in writing, or inconsistencies in the project.
Explain how rigid thinking can cause conflict during a team project.
It can prevent the team from agreeing on changes, slow down progress, or make others feel left out.
Why is it helpful to use “I” statements during disagreements?
It helps you express your feelings calmly without blaming others, which makes it easier to solve the problem.
How can reading facial expressions help with group projects?
It lets you know when someone is happy, confused, or upset so you can respond the right way.
Describe one tool that can help with compromise in a group.
Using a vote, flipping a coin, or making a pro/con list to decide fairly.