Category Archives: Learning Language With Augmentative/Alternative Communication

Learning Language With Augmentative/Alternative Communication

Which words do we focus on when teaching language using augmentative/alternative communication?

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The most frequently used words are known as Core Vocabulary words. Approximately 80% of the words spoken are from a small set of 350 words which are mostly pronouns, verbs, prepositions, conjunctions, adjectives, and adverbs. They are usually not nouns.

Focus instruction on teaching core vocabulary words by modeling their use.

It may take some time for a child to learn how to use these words. The child will likely need to experience these words being modeled many, many times before using it on the AAC independently. This video provides an explanation with examples:

How do we help someone learn language using augmentative/alternative communication?

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A child needs to experience others (family, friends, and educators) using the AAC to learn how to use it.

In other words, you need to use the AAC

This is often known as modeling but the official terms are Aided Language Stimulation, Aided Language Input, and/or Partner Augmented Input. There are strategies that can help you learn how to model on a child’s AAC. A response from the child is not required when you are modeling the use of AAC. You are just showing a child how the words used go together to convey a meaning. This video helps explain the idea.