Everyday Teaching Autism Resources

Activity Matrix is a planning tool for teachers and clinicians to organize their teaching and students’ learning at a glance. Most importantly, this tool will help promote individualized learning experiences for each student and client. Any activity-based educational settings would definitely benefit from having a thought process using an activity matrix.

I have used and created Activity Maxtrix 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.

How to Create Activity Matrix in Special Education

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

Type up all the names of activities on each row. Add your students’ names in the column.

It’s important to think of each student and client in the particular setting.

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.

More resources to read

Activity Matrix Sample

Here is an Activity Matrix Sample that you can down and start planning. Rember that the forms can vary depending upon the setting and service providers (teachers). Let’s make every minute of teaching meaningful for all individuals including students, clients and staff supporting you.