BAM-WOW:
Book-A-Month, Word-Of-the-Week
For communication partners, teachers, and clinicians, BAM-WOW offers a literacy approach specifically designed for learners with complex communication needs. We provide systematic vocabulary building, seamless AAC integration, and multimodal participation, creating accessible pathways to literacy for all learners.
How BAM-WOW Works
01
Choose a Book
Each month we select one amazing book to explore.
02
Pair Weekly Core Words + Related Vocabulary
Every week we emphasize an embedded "Word of the Week" (usually a core word), along with other high frequency vocabulary related to the chosen book.
03
Explore the Words + Share Ideas Over the Month
We "play" with the words in different ways throughout the month; helping bring their meanings to life, while generalizing the vocabulary and creating meaningful contexts for learners.
Vocabulary that builds over the month…
Vocabulary
Each month we identify 10-15 frequently used words related to the chosen book. These words are taught and talked about across the month.
Word of the Week
Each week we emphasize one of the vocabulary words in particular (usually a core word) to help bring meaning to these decontextualized words.
Using New Words
We use the words in a variety of ways, and not just in the book of the month. We play games that include the words, do crafts with them, and more.
Weekly Exploration + Learning Journey
1
Week 1: Introduction
Meet the characters and setting. Learn the first Word-of-the-Week and find it or add it to communication systems and supports.
2
Week 2: Building Understanding
Dive deeper into the story. Discover the second vocabulary word and practice using both new words, plus the other related vocabulary connect to the month's book.
3
Week 3: Exploring Themes
Discuss the story's meaning. Add the third word and use all three core words to share and describe thoughts, have fun, and make connections.
4
Week 4: Pulling it Together
Complete the book (or read it in full!). Use all four WOW words, and the other related vocabulary words to talk about the books, the connections, and more.
There are so many ways to do BAM-WOW!
BAM-WOW is designed so every learner can participate in ways that are meaningful to them. There are many ways to be a reader and share one's thoughts!
- Point to pictures or words
- Use eye gaze to make selections
- Use your communication device or talker
- Reference your personal Dictionary
- Express yourself in the way that works best for you
Our BAM-WOW Library
Dive into the exciting BAM-WOW Library! Each book is carefully selected to invite curiosity, spark imagination, build vocabulary, and grow language. Click on any book cover to get to the materials for that book: The BAM-WOW Script, Digital Book, Adapted Book, Video book, and two sets of Vocabulary (icons, words, definitions, etc.).
March's Book
I Believe I Can is an empowering and uplifting book that celebrates self-confidence, perseverance, and believing in one’s own abilities. Through rhythmic, affirming language and vibrant illustrations, the story encourages people to recognize their strengths, embrace challenges, and understand that their potential is limitless. It is filled with themes of resilience, courage, kindness, and self-worth, reminding readers that with belief in themselves, they can grow, achieve, and make a positive impact on the world around them.
April's Book
In Planting a Rainbow, a child and their mom plant a garden. They dig in the soil, plant seeds and bulbs, and wait. Then… something amazing happens! They watch the flowers grow into a bright, colorful rainbow. Filled with bright pictures and colors, this book inspires a month's worth of colors, making, and growing. Have fun!
