Idioms are difficult to understand when encountered only in a written context. Studies have shown that in teaching children on the autism spectrum about idioms, the key is application. Students need to see how they can use idioms in everyday conversations.
Instead of simply writing another textbook about the meanings of these challenging phrases, Carla Butorac, MAT, SLP, has created an interactive workbook full of scripted conversations, quizzes, and other features to help students practice.
Butorac, who has spent her career as a speech-language pathologist and consultant for special education programs, includes 775 common idioms, like "wrong side of the tracks," "best of both worlds," and "it won't hurt to ask" for students to practice. Many people don't realize how many idioms we use in everyday conversation, and Butorac's work significantly lessens the confusion for those who don't grasp figurative language quickly.
Butorac's scripts take students into simple conversations sprinkled with idioms. Students may be discussing vacation plans with parents, chatting with a friend about schoolwork, or meeting a new neighbor.
Scripting with Idioms was specifically designed not only to be used by educators, but also by parents, caregivers, and families. Many will find idioms easier to understand and use with Butorac's guide.
About the Author: Carla Butorac, MAT, SLP, has spent fifteen years as a professional development coordinator and district consultant for special education in central Indiana. She trains special education and general education staff, administrators, and noncertified staff in best practice strategies for students with special needs. Butorac previously worked as a speech-language pathologist in Arizona and Indiana.
Butorac received her master's degree in speech-language pathology from Indiana University. She has worked with students with all disabilities and has presented her strategies, materials, and techniques at state and national conferences.
Butorac founded The Butorac Group. On her website, www.behaviorcommunicates.com, she posts weekly blogs and videos on special education techniques, resources, and materials.
