Core is FUN-ctional October 2025

Defining Functional Communication in Multimodal Contexts

In the context of AAC for individuals with complex communication needs, what best describes functional communication, emphasizing multimodal approaches (e.g., gestures, sign, vocalizations) and honoring ALL forms

• a structured progression starting with low-effort modes like gestures & signs to build reliability before adding vocalizations or AAC, ensuring steady skill development.

• The flexible integration of all communication modes- gestures, signs, vocalizations, & AAC - to express wants, needs, ideas, & social interactions in real-world situations validating each attempts.

• The targeted replacement of inconsistent modes (e.g., gestures or vocalizations) with reliable AAC tools to minimize miscommunication & support consistent participation.

Answer explanation

Multimodal Integration: Functional communication honors ALL forms of expression simultaneously. Research supports validating every communication attempt while providing multimodal access, rather than hierarchical progression or replacement approaches.

Incorporating Core Vocabulary with Switches

When adapting picture-requesting activities using a single-message switch like the Big Mack for emergent communicators, which approach best integrates CORE high-frequency vocabulary to expand beyond basic item requests?

• Pair the switch with partner of core words during activation, using neutral programming to focus on cause-and-effect without overwhelming the user

• Record core words such as "want," "more," or "stop," on the switch to model phrases & build generative requesting skills.

• Begin with fringe vocabulary for specific items to establish clear requesting, then layer in core words like "want" once the user achieves consistent activation.

Answer explanation

Core Vocabulary in Switches: Recording core words directly on switches builds generative language skills from the start. Core words like 'want,' 'more,' and 'stop' can be used across multiple contexts, promoting flexibility over item-specific requests.

Enhancing PECS Books with Core Vocabulary

To promote functional communication growth in PECS users, how should CORE high-frequency vocabulary be added to traditional PECS books?

• Layer core word symbols (e.g., go, help) alongside fringe vocabulary to support sentence construction and flexibility.

• Gradually phase out fringe pictures as core symbols are introduced, allowing the book to evolve towards more versatile sentence-building over time

• Introduce core after solidifying PECS Phase 3 skills, using it to extend discriminate into more complex exhanges while maintaining focus.

Answer explanation

PECS Enhancement: Layering core vocabulary alongside fringe vocabulary maintains the strength of PECS while adding sentence-building flexibility. This approach supports both specific requesting and generative communication.

Embedding Core in Daily Routines

What is the most effective strategy for using CORE VOCABULARY in daily routines to foster functional communication?

• Incorporate brief, data-driven core word drills into routines to track mastery, then fade prompts for natural generalization.

• Prioritize embedding core in high-motivation routines (e.g., snack time) to build momentum, gradually extending to lower-interest activities as engagement grows.

• Model & prompt core words (e.g., make, open) during embedding routines like snacks ro tranistions for authentic use.

Answer explanation

Routine-Based Implementation: Modeling and prompting core words during natural routines provides authentic learning opportunities. This embedded approach is more effective than isolated drills for building functional communication skills.

Overall Implementation of Functional Communication

When implementing functional communication systems emphasizing CORE VOCABULARY in switches and PECS, what core principles guide "how we do it" for optimal outcomes?

• Use fixed sentence frames with core words to scaffold grammar early, providing predictable structures that reduce processing demands.

• Provide presumptive accss to multimodal tools, modeling core words across routines to build generative lanauge.

• Start with core-focused requesting in structured tasks, evaluating progress quarterly before expanding to social or commenting functions.

Answer explanation

Implementation Principles: Presumptive access with consistent modeling across routines builds generative language most effectively. This approach assumes competence while providing rich language exposure in meaningful contexts.