What is the primary focus when setting IEP goals for a student with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

Setting IEP goals for a student with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) fundamentally aims to promote the student's access to the general education curriculum. This focus ensures that students with ASD have opportunities to engage with and learn the same content as their peers, fostering inclusion and participation.

By emphasizing access to the general education curriculum, IEP goals can be tailored to address specific challenges the student may face due to their ASD while also encouraging the development of essential skills that enable them to thrive in a regular classroom environment. This approach not only supports academic growth but also social and functional skills that are critical for the student's overall educational experience and future success.

Other options may touch on relevant aspects of the educational process, such as the need for achievable goals or specialized instruction, but they do not encapsulate the essential principle of promoting access to the general curriculum, which is crucial for the holistic development of students with ASD.