Autism Spectrum Disorder A. adapt B. conventions C. classified D. crucial E. diagnosed F. intellectual G. issues H. literary I. miss J. repeated K. trials Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, affects how people communicate with and relate to others. Most people with autism don’t understand some of the basic social __1__ that others take for granted. They might have trouble making eye contact, holding a conversation, or recognizing gestures. And over one-third of people with ASD are nonverbal, meaning they don’t use speech. Along with communication __2__, people with autism often like to follow certain patterns or __33__ behaviors. Many are sensitive to bright light or loud noises, and others have physical problems, like trouble walking or picking up small objects. Some have __4__ disabilities, but about half have average or above average IQs. It’s also common for people with autism to have a great long-term memory for certain details, and many excel in math, science, music, or art. With such a wide variety of symptoms, no two people with ASD are alike. The behaviors vary so much that they used to be __5__ as different disorders. One was Asperger Syndrome, where people obsess over particular topics, __6__nonverbal social cues, and may not understand appropriate social behaviors. Even though there’s no cure for ASD, therapy and medication can help people adjust. Scientists are also doing clinical __7__ to find other solutions. They’ve learned that 1 out of every 68 children in the US has the disorder, but they still aren’t sure what causes it. No matter why it happens, ASD is being __8__ at a higher rate every year. This doesn’t mean it’s becoming more common. It just means more people are aware of the condition and getting professional help early, and awareness is __9__. The more we learn about autism, the more we can understand and relate to those who have it. It’s important to note that people with ASD deserve the same respect, fairness and chances that people without ASD receive. This will help people with ASD __10__ and grow in our communities.