ABSTRACT
When you want to tell the pupil something, or ask them a question, say their name first and then leave a short pause of a second or two. For example, ' Jaime, . . . get me your reading book, please.' This gains the pupil's attention, lets them know that they need to listen, and will give them time to transfer their attention. When you ask the pupil a question, allow time to process the question and then for him/her to formulate the answer. A slow count of ten is usually about the right length of time. If you think a pupil has not understood, try not to rephrase the question too soon. It will be interpreted as a separate question and will cause confusion. Use simple straightforward language in short sentences. This doesn't mean talking down to pupils, but more direct information will help them understand what you want. Give validity and respect to pupils' opinions. Show that you value their contributions by repeating what he/she has said, and by your smiling and nodding. This has an added benefit of giving a model of positive communicative behaviour that other children can copy. Most pupils with learning difficulties are much stronger visually than aurally. Use objects, photographs, pictures or symbols to support speech. These supports will get the message across much more easily. When meeting a pupil for the first time use minimum eye contact. Some pupils find eye contact threatening; this is especially so for those pupils with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. If a pupil is trying to tell you something and you do not understand, ask him/her to repeat what they have said. If you still do not understand, say so, but ask the child to tell someone they know well who might be more 'tuned in'. Look around for clues, and ask the pupil to point to or draw something which might help. Try not to finish off pupils' sentences, even if you think you know what they are going to say. It is annoying, and you will probably be wrong. By all means smile and encourage them to keep trying, but if they think they don't need to try to communicate they won't bother next time!
