6 Ways to Teach AAC Core Words “Different” and “Same”
Different? Same! by Heather Tekavec is a magnificent book that highlights the differences and similarities between all sorts of animals – what they look like, where they live, how they move, etc. It is the perfect book for targeting the core words “different” and “same”.
Read through the book while modeling “different” and “same” on your child’s AAC device. Reinforce these concepts using the following activities…
Sorting
Sorting involves putting together items that have similar characteristics. Depending on your child’s level, you may choose to start by sorting items into only two groups.
Determine what characteristic you want to start with – shape, size, color, etc. Find small items like blocks or foam shapes that you can use to highlight that characteristic. Use a piece of paper that is divided into the appropriate number of sections to place those items on. It might look like this:
Model phrases like “these are both hearts… they are the same shape” and “this one doesn’t go here… it’s a different color”.
Fine Motor
Gather beads of different sizes and colors. Thread them one by one on a string. As you work, model phrases like “now, I’ll pick a different color”.
Snack
Sit down for a snack together. Choose fruit snacks or trail mix – something with variation. As you eat together, you may say “yours is blue… mine is red… they are different”.
Self-Portrait
Have the child draw a self-portrait. Then ask them to draw their family or friends. Talk about similarities and differences between them.
Model phrases like “you and your Mom have the same color hair” or “your sister likes purple but you like green… you like different colors”. Celebrate their differences!
AAC Core Vocabulary Bundle – “Different/Same”
This bundle (available in my Teachers Pay Teachers store) is full of activities for teaching “different” and “same”, including:
- “The Lost Mitten” booklet
- “The Missing Sock” booklet
- Puzzles
- Matching activity pages
- Coloring Pages
- Cut and paste activities
It also includes a handout explaining aided language stimulation that you can share with other members of your child’s team.
