Total communication Approach in KS4
We recognise the importance of having a total communication approach to communication throughout the department. This enables all pupils to develop key skills and enables them to have their voice heard. Below are some of the strategies used but these are adapted and added to dependent on the cohort of pupils within the department.
Objects of reference
Objects of Reference are objects used to represent a person, activity or event. Over time the person learns that the object stands for that person, activity or event. Objects of Reference are used to help a person understand what is happening in their environment and also be used to help people make choices.
With KS4 Objects of reference are used for those individuals who require the prompt of an object to support their understanding of what is happening around them.
Symbols
Symbols are images used to support understanding of text by making the meaning clearer and easier to understand. They help students to understand information and are visual representations of words.
Symbols can help to visualise a meaning for less visual concepts. As a school we use Boardmaker to produce symbols which are used across the curriculum.
Within KS4 we use symbols in a range of ways, from labelling equipment around the classroom to increase vocabulary and independence, supporting with understanding of timetables and introducing new vocabulary within topics using communication boards.
Sign language
Sign language is key supporting those with communication difficulties, Makaton is the programme we are advised by Speech and Language to use to support with transitions and next steps after West Lancs. It can support pupils with limited speech to express themselves with more independence reducing frustration and developing communication and interaction skills.
Within KS4 we sign language to support understanding and expression, we recognise the benefit it has to enable students to communicate with a wider audience and supports with recall of key words. Key vocabulary is signed alongside speech and new signs taught to link with topic content as appropriate.
ACC devices
Augumentative/ alternative communication devices are communication systems that allow students to commuication with those around them without the use of speech. They are many different types of systems available and we work closely with the Speech and Language team and the ACE centre to ensure pupils who would benefit have acccess to appropriate devices.
Students in KS4 are supportive to use their personal communication devices, staff often work alongside pupils supporting them to find their way around a new device before encouraging them to use it in a range of contexts including socially with their peers.
Picture exchange communication system
PECS is a communication system which is research based and has the primary goal of teaching functional communication. It is a well planned out system where pupils work through stages will staff support gradually decreasing to increase independence.
Students in KS4 are supportive to use their personal communication devices, staff often work alongside pupils supporting them to find their way around a new device before encouraging them to use it in a range of contexts including socially with their peers.
Speech
As a school we recognise the importance of developing speech for all our pupils and continually striving for them to use speech to the best of their ability. Staff are supported to understand the word level pupils are working out and support the development of speech through a variety of progammes such as colourful semantics.
KS4 work closely with Speech and Language teams to deliver individual programmes where appropriate. They ensure language used is at a relevant level and model sentence structure to develop communication further.
