Using Core Words In The Classroom

Why Core Words Are Important

Core words are vocabulary that we use most frequently in everyday conversation. Teaching core words in the classroom is so important because it allows our students to communicate effectively and efficiently! Core words allow students to get further when communicating. For example, if a student was to use the word “park”, you would know they wanted the park. BUT if a student learned and used the word “go”, they could use it in so many different ways, and would be able to reach more people and use it in a variety of settings.

Learning core words allow students a flexible way to communicate. Core words also make up 80% of the language we use. I have seen an increase in student communication since implementing teaching core words in the classroom.

Where To Start

I started with finding a bundle on TPT that had materials already made for core words in the classroom. There are so many to choose from and the easiest option in my opinion! I used the picture icons of the words to put on my word wall for each letter. I like that this is hanging in my room for my students to reference. I would also point to the word when modeling it in a sentence. I started with the letter A and we focused on a word each week.

*Teacher Tip: Put the Word Wall at eye level with the students and laminate for longevity!

During whole group circle time, we read an interactive vocabulary book. Each student would practice saying the word, pointing to it or finding it on their AAC device. If the device is new to the student then we would model finding the word and using it. During centers we would also incorporate the word of the week as much as possible.

For example, the word “go” I would have a staff member use a wind up toy- which the students loved! We would wind it up whenever a student was able to request the toy to “go”. Students might request this on an AAC, by pointing to the word with the picture icon or verbally saying the word. Other examples might be coloring the word, writing in sand, or making play-doh words.

Core Words Around The Classroom

In addition to using the core word of the week during centers, I put up picture icon room signs with the word in every applicable spot. I would suggest using them around campus if you frequent spots that it coordinates with. I sometimes have students touch the word on the way out, staff models it for them, they verbally state the word, or use their AAC device.

Core Board In The Classroom

The picture above is an example of a core board that is on each center table as well as hung around the room. I will use this to model pointing to and using core words for students. I also have these printed and laminated and we take them out to the lunch tables! These visuals and the modeling of core words are beneficial for every student at any level. At the beginning of each year, I will laminate these and send them home for my families to use too!

Modeling and teaching core words is so important in the special education setting. The more you teach these words and use them regularly, the more success your students will have in communicating!