Free time activities in enhancing an Asperger learner’s reading and writing skills in English as a foreign language: a case study

Abstract

It is widely believed that children with ASD (autistic spectrum disorder) function considerably better in all spheres of life when properly rested and not stressed out. To keep their attention, concentration and perception levels when dealing with both school and everyday life duties at an optimal rate, children with autism should have a sufficient amount of free time for relaxation and entertainment to compensate for the period when they perform compulsory tasks. During their free time they usually devote themselves to their passions, which not only brings them considerable satisfaction, but also contributes to their development. The aim of this presentation is to give an account of a case study whose purpose is to investigate whether the non-stress period can be used with ASD children for guided educational activities. A primary school learner with AS (Asperger Syndrome), a boy at the age of 9, who is a participant of this study, is encouraged in an indirect way to use English reading and writing skills during his leisure time, which is to support his learning the language. The authors examine several stages of their collaboration with the learner and present some anticipated challenges and problems as well as expected positive outcomes.