A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a process used to understand why a student engages in challenging behaviors at school. The goal is to identify the purpose or “function” of the behavior—whether it’s to gain attention, escape a task, get something tangible, or satisfy a sensory need.
o Antecedent: What happens right before the behavior
o Behavior: The specific behavior that occurs
o Consequence: What happens immediately after the behavior
· A: Teacher gives a difficult math problem
· B: Student throws pencil
· C: Teacher removes the assignment
1. Positive Reinforcement – Rewarding good behavior to encourage it.
Example: Praise, stickers, or extra playtime.
2. Visual Supports – Using pictures or charts to show expectations.
Example: A visual schedule for classroom activities.
3. Task Modification – Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Example: Shorter worksheets with breaks in between.
4. Functional Communication Training – Teaching alternative ways to get needs met.
Example: Using a picture card to request a break instead of acting out.
5. Token Economy / Behavior Chart – Earning points or tokens for positive behavior.
Example: Trade tokens for a small reward.
6. Environmental Modifications – Adjusting the classroom to prevent triggers.
Example: A quiet corner for students who get overwhelmed.
For strategies to support positive behavior alongside academic instruction, see our Behavior Intervention Strategies page.

Evidence-Based Practices (EBPs) are teaching strategies proven by research to help students learn effectively. They are tailored to each student’s needs and monitored for progress.
Examples of Academic EBPs:
· Explicit Instruction: Step-by-step teaching of skills.
· Direct Instruction: Structured lessons with practice and feedback.
· Systematic Phonics: Teaching letter-sound relationships in reading.
· Graphic Organizers: Visual tools to organize information.
· Modeling & Guided Practice: Teacher demonstrates, then guides student practice.
Copyright © 2025 Fullerton Diagnostics - All Rights Reserved.
Contact me at: uniqeka@att.net
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.