ACE (All Communication Expansion)

Modeling Every Communicative Function With AAC—Requests, Comments, Rejections & More

ACE turns a single favorite activity into a full-scale language lesson, showing learners that AAC isn’t just for asking—it’s for sharing feelings, cracking jokes, and saying “no, thanks.” By modeling a rich mix of core-word utterances across all verbal operants, behavior analysts, SLPs, and educators help autistic and other neurodivergent learners discover the true versatility and fun of communication.

Why use ACE?

• Broader, more spontaneous language. Research on aided-language input shows that modeling varied functions (not just requesting) sparks increases in comments, questions, and social exchanges.
• Stronger generalization across settings. Teaching the same core words for multiple purposes makes vocabulary stick and transfer to new people, places, and activities.
• Natural motivation through play. Embedding AAC into high-interest routines keeps sessions engaging and lowers performance pressure because there’s no requirement to respond yet.