AAC and Predictable Chart Writing Strategies

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) has revolutionized how educators support students with communication challenges, offering a bridge to more effective interaction and learning. Among the myriad applications of AAC in the classroom, its role in the writing process stands out as particularly transformative. This blog post explores how teachers can leverage AAC and predictable chart writing to support their students during writing activities. Let me teach you the ways to bring AAC and predictable chart writing together!

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Understanding AAC and Its Importance in Writing

AAC encompasses various tools and strategies used to aid communication for individuals who find verbal speech difficult. These can range from low-tech options like picture cards and communication boards to high-tech solutions such as speech-generating devices and specialized software. Is predictable chart writing the answer?

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The integration of AAC and predictable chart writing instruction provides students with a means to express their thoughts, participate in classroom activities, and develop literacy skills. By giving students access to AAC, teachers can create an inclusive environment where every student has the opportunity to contribute and succeed. This is a great way to bring AAC and predictable chart writing together!

Predictable Chart Writing: A Step-by-Step Guide

Predictable chart writing is a collaborative and structured approach to writing that involves creating sentences based on a common sentence starter. This technique is particularly beneficial for students who use AAC, as it provides a predictable and supportive framework for writing.

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Step 1: Introducing the Sentence Starter

Begin by introducing a sentence starter prompt. Choose a simple and engaging starter that is relevant to the students’ interests or current classroom themes. For example, “I like to…” or “In the park, I see…” You can always model on AAC and predictable chart writing strips to support students understanding. You can use AAC and sentence stems to bring it all together.

Step 2: Modeling the Process

Model the process of creating sentences with the chosen starter. Use a whiteboard or large paper to demonstrate how to form a complete sentence. Involve your staff in this step to show various ways of completing the sentence, ensuring that students see multiple examples.

Step 3: Student Participation

Invite students to fill in their sentences verbally or by using their AAC devices. Encourage them to think creatively and use vocabulary they are familiar with. For students who might struggle, provide additional support by suggesting words or phrases they can use.

Step 4: Class Review

Once all students have completed their sentences, read through each one as a class. This reinforces the content and allows students to hear their peers’ contributions, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Step 5: Sentence Strips

Before the next class, write each student’s sentence on a sentence strip. During the review session, have students find their sentence strip. This helps reinforce recognition and ownership of their work.

Step 6: Cutting and Reassembling

Provide students with the opportunity to cut their sentence strips apart. With or without a written model, students can practice putting their sentences back together in the correct order. This activity helps develop sequencing skills and reinforces their understanding of sentence structure.

Step 7: Reading and Illustrating

Have students read their sentences in the correct order. To make the activity more engaging, use the internet to find pictures that relate to their sentences, or have students draw their own illustrations. This visual component enhances comprehension and makes the writing process more meaningful.

Step 8: Presentation and Book Creation

Students then share their sentences and pictures with the class, promoting confidence and communication skills. Finally, compile the sentences and illustrations into a class book. This not only showcases their hard work but also serves as a tangible reminder of their progress and achievements. This is a great way to bring AAC and predictable chart writing together!

Benefits of Using AAC and Predictable Chart Writing

1. Enhanced Participation: Predictable chart writing provides a structured yet flexible format that encourages all students to participate, regardless of their communication abilities.
2. Language Development: The repetitive nature of the sentence starters helps students practice and internalize language patterns, vocabulary, and grammar.
3. Increased Confidence: By creating sentences and sharing them with peers, students gain confidence in their writing and communication abilities.
4. Collaboration and Community: This approach fosters a sense of community in the classroom, as students work together and learn from each other’s contributions.
5. Multimodal Learning: Combining writing with visual elements and presentations caters to various learning styles and reinforces understanding through multiple modalities.

Tips for Successful Implementation

1. Personalize the Prompts: Choose sentence starters that are relevant and interesting to the students. This increases engagement and makes the writing process more enjoyable.
2. Provide Adequate Support: Ensure that students have access to their AAC devices and know how to use them effectively. Offer additional assistance to those who need it.
3. Celebrate All Contributions: Recognize and celebrate each student’s effort and contribution, regardless of the complexity of their sentence. This fosters a positive and inclusive classroom environment.
4. Regular Practice: Incorporate predictable chart writing into your routine regularly. Consistent practice helps students build confidence and improve their skills over time.

Conclusion

AAC and Predictable chart writing offers a powerful and inclusive strategy for supporting students in the writing process. By providing a structured framework and leveraging the benefits of AAC, teachers can empower their students to express themselves, participate actively in classroom activities, and develop essential literacy skills. Embracing these techniques not only enhances academic outcomes but also fosters a supportive and collaborative classroom environment where every student can thrive. Are you going to try pairing AAC and predictable chart writing?