Lesson S&L 7
Task: Independently use single words.
Prerequisites: S&L 6
Concept: The independent use of words can open the door to a number of learning experiences. The strategy in this effort is to capitalize on the fact that many students who have the ability to imitate single words (see the prerequisite) will often imitate the last word presented in a sentence. Using this concept, the teacher in this sample lesson plan asks the question, "What is this?" and then immediately adds the word to be imitated. Through gradual shaping, the student should develop the ability to answer the question. Select words that represent objects common to the student's environment. Clear articulation is not critical at this level.
Behavioral Objective: When shown an object (from a list of at least 10 words that have been taught) and asked, "What is this?" the student will respond with the name of the item to a 90% accuracy level for 20 trials.
Materials: Objects or items common to the student's environment. Suggested words are those used in the prerequisite task or similar but slightly more difficult words such as door, desk, pen, fork, milk, bread, and belt.
Task Analysis:
1. Select the 10 words that will be used in this lesson and prompt imitation of those words using the word, and a visual presentation of the object to prompt the imitation, as was done in the prerequisite exercise.
2. Continue Step 1, adding the phrase, "What is this?" in front of the word to be imitated. Prompt the student not to imitate the question but rather to imitate the word presented.
3. Continue Step 2, except modify the word to be imitated to only the first sound of the word. If the student only imitates that first sound, prompt imitation of the whole word.
4. Continue Step 3, using only the question, "What is this?" If the student does not make the correct response in 5 seconds, offer the answer, prompt imitation, and ask the same question again. Continue until the objective is met.