A discrepancy between IQ scores and performance on academic tests has been identified in 90 percent of high-functioning children with autism. A study at the University of Washington's Autism Center concluded that many children with autism can gain the sense of self-worth associated with academic achievement. Improvements in the diagnosis of autism and the greater incidence of early intervention have resulted in more children ranked in the high-functioning range of the disorder. These children have average or above average IQs and are able to take advantage of regular classroom activities when early interventions are used to improve their social