Core Vocabulary
There are over a million words in the English language, however, a small set of 250-350 words make up 80% of what we say every day. We refer to these high-frequency words as CORE VOCABULARY. Some of the top words used by most people include I, yes, no, my/mine, the, want, is, it, that, a, go, you, what, on, in, here, more, out, off, some, and help.
There are over a million words in the English language, however, a small set of 250-350 words make up 80% of what we say every day. We refer to these high-frequency words as CORE VOCABULARY. Some of the top words used by most people include I, yes, no, my/mine, the, want, is, it, that, a, go, you, what, on, in, here, more, out, off, some, and help.
These words are highly flexible and functional. They can be used to model, teach, and communicate for years to come. For example, once a child learns the word “go”, they can use it to say “go there”, “go away” or “don’t go”. The word “go" can be used anywhere including at the store, at school, and at home.
These words are highly flexible and functional. They can be used to model, teach, and communicate for years to come. For example, once a child learns the word “go”, they can use it to say “go there”, “go away” or “don’t go”. The word “go" can be used anywhere including at the store, at school, and at home.
Core words are typically found on the home page of your AAC board, book and device for easy access.
Core words are typically found on the home page of your AAC board, book and device for easy access.
Here is an excellent video by Rachel Madel, one of the leaders in the field of AAC.
But what about the other words? The ones that make up the other 20% of what we say? They are called FRINGE WORDS. They more specific and are used in specific situations. For example, words like “volcano”, “truck” or “mouse” are fringe words.
But what about the other words? The ones that make up the other 20% of what we say? They are called FRINGE WORDS. They more specific and are used in specific situations. For example, words like “volcano”, “truck” or “mouse” are fringe words.
Here are some sample core word boards:
