Informative Writing Projects to Help Students Learn About Neurodivergence
Are you looking for meaningful ways to help students learn about neurodivergence? In this blog post, we're excited to share how we use informational writing projects as a way for students to build empathy and understanding about neurodivergence.
1. Define neurodiversity clearly and discuss why words matter
As you guide your students through conversations of neurodivergence, it's important to emphasize that words matter. Set ground rules for speaking with respect and kindness, as well as outline future consequences for conversations that are unkind.
Once you've shared your expectations for how to have healthy dialogue, offer students a clear definition of neurodivergence. We love this one from Harvard Health Publishing, but there are plenty of similar definitions online.
2. Share reliable sources with students to make sure they find research-based information
Before you get started on the research project, teach a lesson about the importance of using reliable sources. Emphasize the potential harm caused by using misinformation.
Here are a few tips for teaching students to pick reliable sources:
- Make sure students understand the differences between domain extensions (.edu, .gov, .org, etc.)
- Discuss what it means for academic journals to be peer-reviewed
- Encourage students to check the date of research publications to make sure the information is relevant
- Talk how authors' qualifications, motivations, connection to the topic, etc. vary
- Ask students to consider why a source was written and whether there could be an underlying agenda
- Remind students to focus on sources that are directly connected to their research topic
3. Distribute graphic organizer posters to guide neurodivergence research projects
We love giving students infograph-style templates to document their research. These resources keep students focused on the task at hand, rather than getting distracted by rabbit trails of information.
The sections of each neurodivergence research poster include:
- definition of the type of neurodivergence
- % of people with the type of neurodivergence
- symptoms of the type of neurodivergence
- causes of the type of neurodivergence
- support and resources for people with the type of neurodivergence
- famous people with the type of neurodivergence
On the back side, students can list their research sources (websites, books, etc.) and personal information (name, date, class). Each template can be printed on 12 x 18 in paper in black and white.
The collection of neurodivergence research poster templates includes:
4. Give students a neurodivergence brochure project template
Another way that students can compile research about neurodivergence is by creating a tri-fold brochure. This trifold template guides students through the process of studying definitions, symptoms, causes, statistics, diagnosis processes, treatments and interventsions, and community support tips. Students will also be able to illustrate and write about three famous individuals who have neurodivergence.
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