Self-Advocacy Basics
What is self-advocacy?
The ability to speak up for your own needs, interests, and rights.
What is an accommodation?
A change or support that helps someone do something they might struggle with, like extra time on a test.
What is communication?
Sharing ideas/thoughts, feelings, or information with someone else.
What is a good friend?
Someone who stands by a friend and helps them, when they need it.
What is being ignored?
When people do not pay attention to you or don't listen to what you are saying on purpose.
What is an "I" statement?
A statement that helps you express your feelings, needs, and wants clearly and directly.
What is a responsibility?
Something you must do at school, like following the rules and being respectful to others.
What is speaking up?
This means saying what you need or want clearly and politely.
What is an advocate?
A person who helps others by speaking for them when they can’t speak for themselves.
What is fear of judgment?
When you’re afraid to speak up because you're worried about what others might think.
What is self-awareness?
Understanding your own strengths and weaknesses.
What is an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)?
A legal document that helps students with disabilities get the support they need at school.
Why is listening carefully important?
It helps you understand what someone is saying and how it might affect you.
What is speaking for someone else?
This is when you make sure someone's voice is heard, especially if they are too shy to speak or cannot speak for themself.
What is low self-esteem?
When a person feels they are not good enough, or don’t have the power and confidence to speak up.
What is goal-setting in self-advocacy?
Create a plan for how to communicate your needs and monitor your progress.
What is equal treatment?
The right to be treated fairly and equally, no matter who you are.
How can you show you are listening to someone?
By looking at them or nodding.
What is standing up for someone?
When you stand up for a classmate who is being treated unfairly, you are doing this.
What is lack of knowledge?
When you don’t know enough about the situation or your rights, which makes it harder to ask for help.
What is speaking up for yourself?
Recognizing and expressing your needs or desires clearly to others.
What is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
This is a law that gives students with disabilities the right to get extra help if they need it in school.
What is having a respectful conversation?
When you talk to someone about a problem in a calm and respectful way to find a solution.
What is talking to an authority figure to ask for help?
When you talk to someone in charge, like a teacher, to make sure a friend gets the help they need.
What is discrimination?
When others treat you unfairly because of who you are, such as your race or disability.