Literacy is critical in AAC as it allows communication about any topic at any time. Teaching individuals who use AAC to read and write begins with building a range of emergent literacy skills and conceptual understandings. It then requires a shift to conventional instruction focused on word-level and text-level reading and writing skills.

This presentation will offer an instructional framework and practical approaches to identify and address the literacy learning needs of students with complex communication needs. The emphasis will be on comprehensive approaches to instruction that move beyond skill mastery to skill application in meaningful reading and writing contexts. Specific examples, instructional approaches, and a range of resources will be shared.