AAC Awareness Month

Core Vocabulary

To Anyone who Communicates...

This newsletter is the SECOND in an October series that will accumulate some tips we've learned from the research of best practices in implementing and supporting AAC.

We hope you find it helpful!

❤️Your IU08 Assistive Technology Team

What is Core Vocabulary?

Is there a list?!

There are many sources citing a list of the 'top used' core words. There are also lists that compare findings and lists for adult core vocabulary. Looking at a variety of sources and integrating information into your knowledge and practice regarding core words is highly recommended! Here are a few compilations of core vocabulary research and lists:

How Can I Teach Core Words?

There are so many strategies that you can utilize to teach, incorporate, and encourage the use of core vocabulary in your classrooms. Let's take a look at resources for the following strategies:

1. Core Word of the Week

2. Instruction with books and resources

3. Modeling & Descriptive Teaching

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1. Core Word of the Week

Targeting one core word each week to model is a great strategy for all of your students. Core words typically align with sight words and using symbol support, providing multiple visual models of the word, and creating opportunities for consistent use of the word, verbally and with AAC, is a great way to begin your core word journey!

AssistiveWare has a great Core Word Classroom website with a plethora of resources and ideas to get you started!

Create Your FREE Core Word Classroom Account Here

2. Instruction with Books and Resources

Saltillo Core Word Resources

'Let's Teach Core' provides some explicit steps to teaching and implementing core words in your classroom.

'Active with AAC' provides a companion of core words and possible scripts to utilize for play and classroom-based activities!

Saltillo provides a yearly calendar with all the ideas, tips, and tricks to keep at fingertip access! Take a look at the upcoming 2022 calendar and reference other years and resources at Saltillo's Chat Corner!