236.Implementing AAC in the Classroom: Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting
Be The Exception In Special Education
Release Date: 10/31/2024
236.Implementing AAC in the Classroom: Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting
Be The Exception In Special Education
In this final episode of our AAC Awareness Month series, we dive into the practical side of AAC implementation. Learn how to use AAC in everyday classroom routines, troubleshoot common issues, and keep your students engaged with their AAC tools. Discover easy-to-implement tips and tricks that will help you overcome challenges and empower your students to communicate effectively. In this episode you will learn: Quick wins for integrating AAC into daily classroom activities. The importance of modeling AAC use for students and peers. How to troubleshoot device malfunctions or...
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235.How Special Educators Choose and Customize AAC Tools for Students
Be The Exception In Special Education
This week we are continuing our chats about all things AAC. Last week we covered the basics about what they are and why our students need them. In this episode, we take a closer look at how to choose and customize AAC tools to fit the unique needs of each student. Learn how to assess your students’ communication needs with help from an SLP, and discover tips for selecting between low-tech and high-tech AAC systems. Plus, get practical ideas for customizing AAC tools to engage and empower your students. In this episode you will learn: How to assess a student’s communication...
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234.What is AAC and Why Does It Matter in Special Education?
Be The Exception In Special Education
In this episode, we kick off AAC Awareness Month by exploring the basics of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Learn what AAC is, the types of AAC systems, and why it’s so crucial for non-verbal and minimally verbal students in special education. We’ll also discuss real-life examples of how AAC has transformed the classroom and fostered student independence. Don’t miss this foundational episode, and get ready for the next one, where we’ll dive deeper into choosing the right AAC tools. In this episode you will learn: Definition of AAC and its types...
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233.Brewing Success: How a School Coffee Cart Can Empower Special Education Students
Be The Exception In Special Education
A few years back I set up a coffee cart with my students. I had no idea just how much change and academic growth would come from this one project! This week I’m sharing my experience of setting up a school coffee cart. You will discover how this project not only enhances functional academic skills but also builds social and emotional growth among special education students. I’m providing practical tips on how to get started, the benefits of running a coffee cart, and the key elements to ensure its success in your school. In this episode you will learn: Why a school...
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232.Cultivating Cultural Competence in the Self-Contained Classroom with Alexis from The Peachy Speducator
Be The Exception In Special Education
Cultural competency is all about being able to interact with various cultures. As teachers, this is such a vital thing that has to occur for the success of our students in the classroom. In this episode, Alexis shares her insights on integrating cultural competence into the self-contained classroom. With over a decade of teaching experience, Alexis provides actionable strategies for creating an inclusive and culturally aware learning environment. In this episode you will learn: Understanding what cultural competence is and why it matters in special education. Effective...
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231.Unlocking the Secrets to Teaching Science & Social Studies in Special Ed: Tips and Resources
Be The Exception In Special Education
In this episode, I’m diving into effective strategies and resources for teaching science and social studies in a self-contained special education classroom. I’m sharing about the importance of adapted curriculum, hands-on activities, visual supports, differentiation, and fostering a collaborative environment. Discover how my comprehensive Adapted Science and Social Studies Bundle can make your teaching journey more rewarding and impactful. In this episode you will learn: The significance of using adapted curriculum Engaging hands-on activities for science and social studies ...
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230.Mastering Independent Work Stations
Be The Exception In Special Education
In this episode of Be The Exception in Special Education, we’re joined by Jenn from Teach Love Autism. She is a specialist renowned for her innovative strategies in teaching students with autism. Jenn takes us through the essential elements of setting up and managing independent work stations in the classroom, shedding light on why these tools are vital for fostering independence and supporting diverse learning needs. In this episode you will learn about: Independent Work Stations Explained: What they are, why they work, and how they benefit students with autism. The...
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229.Things I’ve Learned Since Starting Back to School - SPED Teacher Tips
Be The Exception In Special Education
Starting a new school year is always a mix of excitement and uncertainty, and this year has been no exception. With a few weeks under our belts, it's clear that this school year is like nothing we’ve experienced before. We knew it would be a unique challenge, and now that we're in the thick of it, I can say with certainty—we were absolutely right! As teachers, we’re always learning, growing, and adapting. Every day brings new discoveries about our students, our classrooms, and even ourselves. From unexpected quirks in our routines to new ways of making our days run smoothly, there’s a...
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228.Opening Doors to Inclusivity: Exploring ‘The Room With The Rainbow Door
Be The Exception In Special Education
Welcome to Episode 228 of Be The Exception in Special Education! In this inspiring episode, host Dawn Ellis sits down with Lucy Altway, a passionate educator and author of “” Lucy shares her incredible journey in education and dives deep into her new book that celebrates inclusivity and neurodiversity. In this episode you will learn: The Inspiration Behind the Book: Discover what motivated Lucy to write “” and how her experiences shaped this meaningful story. Inclusivity and Neurodiversity: Lucy discusses how she integrated these essential themes into both the narrative...
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227.Mastering the Alternate Standards: Strategies for Success for Special Education Teachers
Be The Exception In Special Education
Alternate achievement standards, also known as AAS, are academic standards that different states, like Alabama, use for students with significant cognitive disabilities who are unable to participate in general assessments. These standards are aligned with grade-level academic content standards, but may be less complex, deep, and broad. The goal of alternate standards is to help students achieve higher academic outcomes and prepare them for the future. In this episode: 🐝 Discover why the one-size-fits-all approach to AAS doesn’t cut it and what to do instead ...
info_outlineIn this final episode of our AAC Awareness Month series, we dive into the practical side of AAC implementation. Learn how to use AAC in everyday classroom routines, troubleshoot common issues, and keep your students engaged with their AAC tools. Discover easy-to-implement tips and tricks that will help you overcome challenges and empower your students to communicate effectively.
In this episode you will learn:
-
Quick wins for integrating AAC into daily classroom activities.
-
The importance of modeling AAC use for students and peers.
-
How to troubleshoot device malfunctions or student resistance.
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Real-life examples of overcoming AAC challenges in the classroom.
Subscribe to Be the Exception so you don’t miss future episodes. If you enjoyed this series, please share it with other educators to raise awareness for AAC in special education!
Links and Resources
Fall Leaves Adapted Unit
Engaging Special Education Thanksgiving Activities Blog
The Exceptional Collective
FREEBIE: AAC Implementation Guide
Amazon Storefront
How to Choose and Customize AAC Tools for Your Students
Connect with Dawn
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