Lesson SEN 4
Task: Respond to taste.
Prerequisites: None
Concept: A fundamental sense that is often underassessed and overlooked is that of taste. Although technically a response pattern cannot be "taught," the knowledge of desired tastes can have enormous benefit in determining future rewards (reinforcement) for other teaching activities and in teaching basic eating skills. This thus is one of the few objectives where a skill is not actually taught. Instead, comprehension of the student's preferences is obtained. In its most fundamental state, the tongue perceives four major taste concepts: sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. In younger people, the sweet concept often is the most appreciated due to the position and amount of taste buds receptive to that concept. Although the sweet taste concept may be a good starting point, do not discount other possibilities. Consultation with a dietitian or medical personnel may be advisable if problems such as possible aspiration or allergies are suspected.
Behavioral Objective: The student will demonstrate a measurable response (perceived to be positive) to some specific types of food to a 90% accuracy level over 10 trials.
Materials: Foods that are sweet, sour, salty, and bitter.
Task Analysis:
1. Although mealtime is the best teachable moment for this interaction, any time that the student wants some food is an opportunity. Using foods that are more bland than strong, select one item that represents each one of the four categories listed in the materials section and offer it to the student. Do not force consumption under any circumstance. Remember, only a taste is needed.
2. While performing Step 1, observe for any reaction such as leaning head toward or away from the source, smiling, frowning, opening the mouth, closing the mouth, or making eye contact. Verbally reinforce any positive response and offer more to the student.
3. Select the type of food (e.g., sweet, sour) that appears to be the best received and attempt to meet the objective. Share the results with other involved persons.