MSI Unit Curriculum - Sense

MSI Unit Curriculum: Phase 3Progress and prioritiesAmanda has made very good progress over the past few years. Currently:• she understands and uses large computer-generated symbols backed onunbreakable plastic. Her vocabulary has increased from 10 symbols to 50 inthree years;• she communicates using her symbols, tactile photo cards of familiar people(see below), a few signs and clear non-verbal means;Pupils and staff have multi-sensory photo cards as their symbols. Tactile photo cardsof pupils are oblong, white-edged and backed with textured fabric; those of staff aresquare, green-edged and backed with small items under plastic• she is much less impulsive and more relaxed than previously, although heremotional security and behaviour still need considerable support at all times;• she usually anticipates familiar routines and structures and can interactin increasingly sophisticated ways – for example, sorting sets of objects;participating with support in small group activities. She understands that shecan negotiate with staff and often does so;• her visual attention span has lengthened and she has learned to watch andfollow an adult’s actions without always needing physical support. Similarly,she has become more aware of her peers and has occasionally copied theiractions;• she is beginning to recognise and enjoy her own achievements.Current work with Amanda centres on increasing her autonomy (by developingboth practical and decision-making skills) and on strengthening her sense of selfand her confidence in interaction with others.76