The good news is that you can adapt predictable chart writing for AAC users so they can participate fully and build communication and literacy skills. Predictable chart writing is one of the most effective ways to bring writing instruction into a special education classroom. The structured, repetitive nature of this strategy makes it accessible for students with diverse learning needs. But what if your students use AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) devices to communicate?
In this post, we’ll look at how predictable chart writing works, why it’s a perfect match for AAC users, and practical strategies for adapting lessons so every student can join in.
Predictable chart writing is a simple, structured writing routine where the teacher introduces a sentence starter and students complete the sentence with their own ideas. For example:
The class builds a chart together, with each student contributing their own completed sentence. Over the course of the week, students reread, cut apart, reassemble, illustrate, and eventually compile their sentences into a mini-book.
For special education classrooms you can use predictable chart writing for AAC users. Predictable chart writing is a powerful way to:
AAC users often need structured opportunities to practice both core vocabulary and fringe vocabulary on their devices. Predictable chart writing provides exactly that:
Have you tried using predictable chart writing for AAC users?
1. Pre-Teach Core Vocabulary
Before starting the writing activity, model the key core words from the sentence frame on the student’s AAC device. For example, with “I like…,” model I + like to help them locate those buttons easily during the lesson.
2. Offer Visual Supports
Provide visuals or word banks to help AAC users brainstorm their ending words. A student might choose from a page of foods, animals, or seasonal items to finish their sentence.
3. Use Partner-Assisted Scanning
For students who need additional support, use partner-assisted scanning to present word options and let them indicate their choice through gestures, eye gaze, or switch use.
4. Encourage Device Use for Participation
When it’s their turn, have students use their AAC device to say their sentence aloud before you add it to the class chart. This validates their contribution and reinforces the use of AAC in authentic communication.
5. Highlight Student Sentences in Print
Write each sentence on the chart and read it aloud. Point to the words while the AAC user plays their sentence on their device, strengthening the connection between oral language, AAC, and print.
6. Build Mini-Books with AAC Integration
When students cut apart and reassemble their sentences later in the week, encourage AAC users to reconstruct their sentence on their device as well. This builds consistency across modalities.
Let’s say your sentence frame is “On the weekend I…”.
This ensures the activity strengthens writing, communication, and AAC fluency at the same time.
By adapting predictable chart writing for AAC users, they gain:
And for teachers, it’s a low-prep, high-impact way to make writing accessible to all learners. Grab 4 weeks of lessons ready for you!
Predictable chart writing is a natural fit for special education classrooms, and with small adaptations, it becomes an inclusive strategy that empowers AAC users. By modeling vocabulary, providing visuals, and encouraging students to use their devices during the writing process, you’re building literacy and communication at the same time. Have you tried using predictable chart writing for AAC users?
👉 Want ready-to-use lessons? My Predictable Chart Writing Curriculum for Special Education includes sentence starters, visuals, and step-by-step routines that make it easy to implement — and perfect for AAC users too!
