Date
17 April 2024

Support communication using recommended approaches

Suggestion for implementing the strategy ‘Key areas where students may need support’

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Use clear, concise language

Use clear, concise language

Consider your use of language. Support important information and instructions with pictures, objects and gestures.
  • Use fewer words.
  • Slow down your rate of speaking.
  • Speak clearly and directly to students, taking care over similarly-sounding words such as “trees” and “cheese”.
  • Give students more time to process information.
  • Explore a range of visual communication tools to support classroom routines and prepare for transitions.
  • Use students’ names to gain attention before giving an instruction or asking a question.
  • Display new vocabulary on a whiteboard or chart.

Teach conversation skills

Teach conversation skills

Supporting students with Down syndrome to be good conversation partners.

Utilise role play across the curriculum

Utilise role play across the curriculum

Role play creates authentic opportunites to practice being a good conversation partner.

Useful resources

Useful resources

Website

Primary education support pack

Ten units providing teaching strategies for different curriculum areas, learning skills and social skills.

Publisher: Down's Syndrome Association

Visit website

Website

Secondary education support pack

Twelve units focusing on different curriculum areas, learning skills, and social skills.

Publisher: Down's Syndrome Association

Visit website

Next steps

More suggestions for implementing the strategy “Key areas to support”:

Return to the guide “Down syndrome and learning”

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