Everyday Teaching Autism Resources

Activity matrix sample in special education will help promote individualized learning experiences for each student and client.

Activity Matrix is a planning tool for teachers and clinicians to organize their teaching and students’ learning at a glance. Any activity-based educational settings (e.g., school, daycare, adult day program, ABA treatment center, elderly day program, etc.) would definitely benefit from having a thought process using an activity matrix.

Activity Matrix Sample in Special Education

I have used and created Activity Matrix in the past when working with the County autism program. Students and clients that I served back then required highly structured programs and activities with intensive staff support to get through their days. As we all agree, safety always comes first- then we have to also consider how we can make their learning days and our (staff) teaching days meaningful and productive. As a case manager and educational specialist, I had to examine better ways to organize each student’s individual learning goals throughout the day. That’s how I found out the easiness and effectiveness of the use of Activity Matrix.

How to Create Activity Matrix in Special Education

First off, open up a word document or powerpoint and create a simple table.

Type up all the names of activities on each row. Add your students’ names in the column. Alternately, you can place your helpers’ (or paraprofessionals) names in stead of your students’ which will become an activity matrix for your staff.

It’s important to think of each student and client in the particular setting. Setting may include free play, circle time, snack, puzzle table, read aloud, community outing, grooming routines, music, etc.

What’s the learning goal for Sue during Circle Time? If Sue has IEP goals and objectives, can she work on the letter-matching goal during Puzzle Table time? Lastly, is each activity meaningful for Ki who is learning his new AAC system? How can I change the activity slightly, so that Ki can stay engaged and has meaningful opportunities to work on his AAC through this activity?

Activity Matrix can be implemented for any children or clients (even adults or elderly program), but is especially useful for those who need extra attention and support in the systematic way with multiple service providers.

More resources to read

Download Activity Matrix Sample

Here is an Activity Matrix Sample that you can down and start planning. Remember that the forms can vary depending upon the setting and service providers (teachers). Programming should be contextually fit with the needs of your clients(students) and resources given, which will help increase the continuation of the program in the long run. Let’s make every minute of teaching meaningful for all individuals including students, clients and staff supporting you.

Activity Matrix is a planning tool for teachers and clinicians to organize their teaching and students’ learning at a glance. If you are working with individuals who needs intensive attention and treatment in the program setting, use these Activity Matrix Sample to begin planning your program in the more systemic way.

Happy Teaching!
Min ❤️