VISUAL SUPPORTS IN THE CLASSROOM
Is it worth the effort?
WE ALL USE VISUALS
Think of 5 visuals that you use everyday.Why do you use them?
Visual supports are a necessary part of life…
I hear and I forget.I see and I remember.I do and I understand.
Chinese Proverb
Communication status may be:
•Nonverbal• Using limited expressive languageskills• Demonstrating receptive languagedifficulties• Using language literally
STOP Verbal
GO
Visual
Why Use Visuals?
Students will: Learn more quickly Reduce aggressive or self-injurious
behavior Decrease frustration and anxiety Learn to adjust to changes Complete tasks by themselves Gain independence
VISUAL SUPPORTS
Help students with word finding difficulties retrieve words when in conversation with an adult or a peer.
VISUAL SUPPORTS
Help students remember the sequence of an activity such as a classroom job or activity.
VISUAL SUPPORTS
Help students maintain their focus on an activity such as morning circle, by having activity related picture symbols in front of them.
VISUAL SUPPORTS
Assist students who have difficulty processing and comprehending information and in organizing their spoken responses.
If they can’t “talk it out”,they will “act it out”.
“Bad” behavior iscommunication!
Improve Behavior Using Visuals
Improve understanding Help students gain control over their environment Support self management
Social Contact/Conversation
Self Management
Strategy
CREATING VISUALS Make it Easy
Why use a digital camera?
Easy to use Creates more meaningful
images Just print
Can use a variety of formats.
Actual objects
Symbols
“Bubbles” Text
BOARDMAKER
Classroom Strategies
Support routine and daily activities
Help student organize Direct basic instruction Support cognitive processing,
enhance memory and recall Create ways for students to
stay on task Promote student
independence