Supporting Complex Communicators through Core Words and Functions!

Hannah Dreiling and Andrea Wichers are school-based Speech-Language Pathologists who have embraced teaching and supporting core words with students who use augmentative alternative communication. Their work in this area has been a 2-3-year project that is continually expanding. They have not only embraced adding core words to the vocabulary set of all of their students, but have also expanded their work to a concept developed by Rachel Langley called “core function of the week” In addition to intentionally setting up times to practice core words for a variety of communicative functions, they have also utilized the evidence-based practice of video-modeling to support and train staff who will be implementing the specific activities with students across the day.  Don't miss this spotlight they share videos and resources!