Communication: Form (Mode)
Teaching Strategies for Form (Mode)
Do NOT begin with objects!
Normal developing communication continuum:
- Gestures with an object – in context.
Holding an empty cup out to an adult with a milk carton to request something to drink or pushing a plate with vegetables away to reject something.
While playing with blocks, holds a block out to the adult to request help to build.
Brings a book to an adult to request read.
- Gestures without an object -
Points to objects to request.
Holds hand out with palm up to request what other person has.
- Photographs -
In addition to a photograph, another technique is to cut out around the object which will give the shape information, usually referred to as TOBIs (True Object Based Icons).
- Detailed graphic -
This includes clipart and cartoon drawing.
- Line Drawing -
Stick figures
- Signs -
Formal sign language
- Words -
Uses verbal words to communicate meaning.
Keep in mind that skills will overlap and not be replaced by preceding skills.
Symbol Systems: When you are introducing pictures for communication, use graphics that the child understands or easily learn. Picture communication symbols from BoardMaker may not be the best place to start. Young children are unable to read and if the printed word is not under the BoardMaker symbol, then it is difficult to determine what the picture represents. For example, here are three pictures. Which ones do you understand best?
