Would you like to teach language that can last a lifetime? Would you also like teach language that's functional in the classroom right now? This session will provide an overview of core vocabulary and how it can be represented in AAC. Core vocabulary is a small set of high frequency words we use for communication, across contexts. This set of words makes up about 80% of total communication. Teaching these words to individuals using AAC is particularly important. It can be difficult to teach core words to students using AAC/picture representation because core words are NOT generally picture-producing words. Communication is so much more than requesting and labeling. Let's get beyond that by making successful communicators using core vocabulary in the classroom!