PROVIDING ACCESS TO LANGUAGE AND CURRICULAR CONTENT WITH CORE VOCABULARY

Course overview

In this course, participants will learn why the provision and teaching of core vocabulary is a best practice when supporting individuals with complex communication needs. Instruction will be provided on where to find research-based lists of core vocabulary words that can be used to aid in appropriate vocabulary selection. Participants will learn about the principles of an important language teaching model called the Descriptive Teaching model (a method of teaching language within academic content without unnecessary focus on topic-specific low frequency vocabulary) and why they should use this model in academic settings. Participants will engage in hands-on activities for vocabulary selection as well as use of the Descriptive Teaching Model. Information on best practice in writing IEP goals supporting core vocabulary principles will be provided. Objective Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to: Explain the importance of providing and teaching core vocabulary for those learning to communicate using AAC Identify at least 3 core vocabulary lists that may be used to aid in vocabulary selection Construct an initial set of core words (5-12 words) to teach an emergent communicator Describe the Descriptive Teaching Model and explain why its use is beneficial for AAC users Complete a vocabulary selection activity using the Descriptive Teaching Model