Enhancing Literacy Access: Implementing AAC During Read-Alouds in the Classroom

Presenter(s)

Event Details

Topic:

instruction, literacy & inclusion

Format:

demonstration

Subject Level:

beginner

Age Span:

preschool
kindergarten - grade 6
grades 7-12

Target Audience:

AT specialist

educator

special educator
speech language pathologist

Professional Development Credits

IACET CEUs:

.3 CEUs

ACVREP CEs:

2.5 CEs

Presentation Length: 2hrs 30mins

Location:

Atrium 1

Description:

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems empower students with complex communication needs to engage meaningfully in general education settings. This session explores practical strategies for integrating AAC into teacher read-alouds, focusing on the intentional selection and teaching of tier-two vocabulary. Participants will learn how to identify high-utility, grade-appropriate, tier-two words from any high-interest text and adapt them for students using AAC by leveraging core vocabulary. Through the lens of descriptive teaching, attendees will discover how to break down complex tier-two vocabulary into student-friendly definitions using familiar core words, fostering both comprehension and participation. Additionally, participants will be introduced to a practical planning form designed to streamline the process of selecting vocabulary, crafting definitions, and embedding descriptive teaching into read-alouds. This session equips educators with actionable tools to create inclusive, language-rich classroom experiences that bridge literacy and communication for all learners.

Learning Outcomes:

As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Distinguish appropriate tier-two vocabulary from other academic vocabulary found in grade-level texts.

• Practice using descriptive teaching to describe tier-two vocabulary using core words.

• Utilize a vocabulary planning document to prepare comments and related core vocabulary for high interest, grade-level appropriate texts.