Strategy
What Would You Do If…?
Review common problem solving situations to encourage students to interact appropriately in different situations.
This activity has been revised and was originally created by Charlotte Cushman and published in the Perkins Activity and Resource Guide (1st edition, 1992). The second edition is available for purchase.
Many students with visual impairments and multiple disabilities learn primarily through rote memorization. As a result, they may be able to function in a set routine but often have difficulty using problem-solving techniques in new situations. This activity challenges students to verbally solve problems in everyday situations. Lessons include Concept Development, English Language Arts, and Independent Living Skills.
None required
Ask students to respond to the following: “What would you do if…?”
- Your feet are cold.
- You’re thirsty.
- You’re sleepy.
- You want to go outside in the snow.
- Your friend is having a birthday.
- You’re hungry in the morning.
- Your hands are dirty.
- It’s a rainy day.
- Your nose is running.
- You want to go out for Halloween.
- There is no milk left in the refrigerator.
- The grass is really long outside your house.
- You want to go camping.
- The dishes in the sink are dirty.
- You cut your finger.
- You want to buy something in the store.
- You’re too hot.
- You want to go into town.
- You get lost at the mall.
Students can make their responses as detailed as seems appropriate. For one student, a single word answer may be enough. Another student might be able to go step-by-step through the solution: “First, I would….Then I would…”
There are an unlimited number of situations to present to the student. It is best to choose situations which are relevant to the student’s own range of experiences.
Hint: During the course of the day, encourage students to solve problems in daily situations. “Bill, I see that your hands are dirty. What do you think you should do about it?”
