Beyond Requesting: Communication Functions to Model
Last Updated: July 8, 2026
When introducing AAC, we often think about teaching requesting first. Making requests is an important function of language, but it is not the only reason we communicate!
Communicative Functions🔗
Communicative functions refer to the reasons why we communicate. This includes commenting, questioning, greeting, expressing emotions, protesting, sharing information, telling stories, and much more. To support language development in our AAC users, we want to model the entire range of communicative functions, not just one or two.
Modeling all communicative functions allows for increased vocabulary exposure and provides examples of how AAC users can participate in a variety of conversational exchanges. It also prevents AAC users from getting “stuck” using their device for just one function (like requesting) and promotes natural, spontaneous communication.
Practical Ideas 🔗
Here are some strategies for modeling a variety of communicative functions during the same activities. Try modeling the capitalized words on your user’s device.
|
Function |
Playing With Blocks |
Eating a Snack |
Reading a Book |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Comment |
“WOW! I LIKE what you made!” |
“It is HARD to OPEN this package.” |
“I SEE a DOG.” |
|
Question |
“HOW tall is your tower?” |
“WHAT will we eat first?” |
“WHO will turn the page?” |
|
Protest |
“DON’T knock down my tower.” |
“I’m ALL DONE.” |
“STOP turning the page.” |
|
Share Information |
“We will PLAY for TEN minutes.” |
“I CAN’T have peanut butter, I’m ALLERGIC.” |
“The BOOK is on the shelf.” |
|
Express Emotions |
“This makes me feel HAPPY.” |
“I am MAD I can’t get my container open.” |
“Oh no! They look SAD.” |
|
Request |
“MY TURN to build!” |
“HELP me open.” |
“Read MORE.” |
Communicate Everywhere, Every Way🔗
By modeling a full range of communicative functions, we help our AAC users grow into well-rounded communicators. They’ll be able to participate in more social interactions, engage with their peers, and feel included in their world.
Need More Advice? Ask an SLP!🔗
From speech app guidance to AAC resources, our SLP Empowerment Team is here to help!
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