Practical

Pragmatics

A range of visual, practical

strategies to support behavioural
and communication targets with
children from 7 years.
Devised by Becky Shanks and
developed and illustrated by

Practical Pragmatics, Prag6

Helen Rippon.

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Practical Pragmatics
Introduction Therapists and teachers are familiar with the idea of using visual strategies to support children with
learning difficulties, communication needs and/or those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.
This pack by Becky Shanks provides new, practical ideas that can be used in everyday settings in
school or at home. Becky Shanks’ ideas have been used extensively in therapy sessions and in the
classroom with great success.
Suitable for a wide age and ability range.
Practical Pragmatics consists of four sections, each with clear instructions and examples: -
1) Emotions/Feelometer – a comprehensive set of games and work sheets to develop the vocabulary
and understanding of emotions.
2) Behaviour Tool kit – a fun, visual kit that can be personalised for a variety of targets.
3) Conversational Planner – a formalised process to prepare and support the child to achieve their
behavioural or communication targets.
4) Magic Circle – a visual strategy to help children ‘break out’ of repetitive behaviours that cause
conflict or distress.

Instructions for use 1: Feelometer / Emotions

Ekman (1972) identifies six basic emotions – happiness…sadness…anger…surprise…fear and
disgust.
Sheets 4-6 provide a list of words describing each of these six emotions. It is by no means a
definitive list, and you are likely to be able to add your own suggestions. Adults should also include
‘slang’ words which are in general use among children.
The word list can be used for reference only, but we would suggest that the words are cut into
individual ‘flashcards’, laminated and sorted into their categories for use with the games and
activities in this section.
Alternatively, you may wish to write the words on to magnetic cards, used in systems such as
“Breakthrough to Literacy”.
Activity 1 Sheets 7-12. For use with individual children or in small group settings, the adult encourages
Words which mean… the children to think of as many words as they can which mean the same as the emotion/facial
expression on the sheet.
The adult can scribe for the child/children, but more able pupils should be encouraged to write their
own suggestions. Children requiring extra support can be helped in two ways: -
(i) Provide word cards from sheets 4, 5, 6 but include some ‘red herrings’
Example: Happy (sheet 7). Place ‘glad’ ’cheerful’ and ‘bored’ on the table.
Ask “Which of these words means happy?”
or
(ii) Use the scenarios (provided on sheets 20-25) to help generate words.
Example: You win a race at Sports Day. “How do you feel? How many words can you think of?”
Alternatively, use situations recently experienced by the children themselves.
Example: “Dinesh. You won the pupil of the week award this morning. How did you feel?”
or
“Jemma. You didn’t like your lunch today did you? There was strawberry yoghurt in your lunch box
and you don’t like it. How did it make you feel when you saw it was strawberry yoghurt?” Etc.

Activity 2, Pages 13-14 The children read the words at the bottom of the page and then match each word to the
Match words to faces correct face. It may be helpful to cut out each word so that the children are able move them around.
The words can then be copied on to the lines under each face.

Activity 3 Page 15. Photocopy the emotions squares and cut them out. Place the spinner provided over the
Feelings Game centre of an emotions square. The children take it in turn to spin the arrow.
Wherever it lands they say … “I feel angry when…………”
“I feel happy when……….. ” etc.
Replacement / additional spinners can be bought from Dickory Dock Designs Ltd, Tel 01484 689619

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Activity 4 Page 16. Cut out each strip of faces into four individual cards. Mix up one set of pictures, and place,
Who is happiest? face up, on the table.
Ask the children to put the faces in order, happy…happiest, or sad…saddest, angry…angriest. Use
scenarios and discussion on the facial expressions to help them achieve the task.

Activity 5 Page 18, 19. The Feelometer is a strong visual cue to help children describe the depth of emotion
FEELOMETER they are feeling.
The Feelometer on page 19 is more appropriate for recording sadness i.e. you might feel “at rock
bottom” but are trying to move up to a more neutral emotion. You will need lots of copies for daily
use, but the Feelometer can also be enlarged and laminated for a more permanent classroom
display. Markers can be stuck on using sticky putty or Velcro.
Discuss with the children that the Feelometer helps them show other people how sad, how cross or
how happy they are. Demonstrate by describing some scenarios.
Example: - “Do you know? I was very happy yesterday. Everyone in my group finished their work and
got a star. Mm – let me think how happy I felt! This means OK (point to the bottom of Feelometer)
…but I felt happier than OK! I think I felt…THIS happy” (point to number 8 on the Feelometer and draw
a red dot on the scale).
Example: - “When you were lining up to come into the room, there was some very naughty behaviour
going on. I felt cross! This is how cross I felt (point to number 7) but now you’re being good, and so I
feel OK (point to bottom of Feelometer)
Encourage the children to discuss their own scenarios and to record the depth of their feelings.
It is probably appropriate to only discuss one kind of emotion at a time.
Other activities are provided, but the Feelometer can be used in a functional setting when, for
example a child is obviously becoming angry or anxious. Ask them to place where they are on the
Feelometer. What can they do to bring them closer to ‘OK’ (see Behaviour Tool kit – Section 3)
Then ask them to rate themselves again on the Feelometer. Are they feeling nearer to OK?

Activity 6 Re-introduce Sheets 16-17. Ask the children to order the faces on the Feelometer.

Activity 7 Sheets 20-25.

Scenarios Ask the children to rate how they would feel on the Feelometer in response to the scenarios. This
can be carried out as a game.
Example: - Use only one set of scenarios at a time e.g. Fear. Cut up the cards and place face down
on the table. Each child has their own Feelometer Chart. They take a card from the pile in turn, read
out the scenario, then plot how frightened they would feel on their chart. They can then compare
their sheets with the ratings of the members of the group. For example, some people may be very
afraid (score 10) of a spider in the bath, but some people may be OK….but what would make THOSE
people score 10….snakes? worms? This can lead to a lively discussion and insight into the feelings of
others.
If the adult is aware of certain situations which trigger a strong emotional response in a child, make a
card to include in the pack e.g. Anger: “someone touched my arm”
“someone sat in my place” etc.

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 happy glad cheerful jolly

pleased joyful OK contented

delighted ecstatic cool keen

proud fine

sad depressed gloomy low

devastated miserable bored disappointed

distraught down fed up moody

upset

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 angry frustrated hacked off vexed

steaming miffed cross mad

annoyed furious fuming put out

grumpy

surprised astonished aghast bewildered

shocked startled astounded excited

amazed puzzled

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 frightened confused afraid terrified

bothered panicky alarmed scared

worried anxious nervous petrified

tense

disgusted sickened hate ashamed

loathe dislike appalled guilty

detest revolted repelled repulsed

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Which other words mean happy?

happy
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Which other words mean sad

sad
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Which other words mean angry?

angry
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Which other words mean surprised?

surprised
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 10
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Which other words mean frightened?

frightened
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 11
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Which other words mean disgusted?

disgusted
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 12
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Findthe word that describes the face.

cheerful disgusted miserable fine

ashamed confused furious terrified
excited disgusted
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 13
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Findthe word that describes the face.

happy OK amazed sad

cross bored scared proud
worried
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 14
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 sad
happy angry

excited afraid
disgusted
miserable
bored worried

proud amazed
confused
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 15
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 happy

angry
sad

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 16
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 frightened

disgusted
surprised

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 17
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 +10
9

OK
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 18
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 OK
-1

-2

-3

-4

-5

-6

-7

-8

-9

-10
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 19
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Happiness Scenarios
You score a goal You win a race at sports day

Mum gives you extra pocket money Your favourite TV programme is on

tonight

It’s Friday! No school tomorrow Mum’s put your favourite sandwiches in

your lunch box

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 20
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Sadness Scenarios
Your best friend is moving away to Your hamster dies
another town

You can’t go to a party because you are ill You’ve watched a sad film about a lost
dog

Your mum is upset about something You haven’t made it into the school
football team

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 21
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Anger Scenarios
Someone broke your pencil on purpose Dad won’t buy you the toy figure you want

You lost a game Someone pushed you in the playground

Someone borrowed your rubber without Mum has moved your collection of toys
asking

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 22
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Surprise Scenarios
You see an old friend in the park You’ve won first prize in the school art
competition

You thought you were only getting a You get an invitation to a party from
CD for your birthday, but when you go someone you don’t know very well
downstairs there’s a huge box waiting for
you

You get 10 out of 10 in a spelling test you You walk into class, and it’s a new teacher
thought you had not done well in

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 23
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Fear Scenarios
There’s a big spider in the bath You’re walking home and thunder and
lightening starts

A dog chases you down the street You go on a huge roller coaster ride at the
fun fair

You’re watching a film about ghosts and You have been asked to read something
monsters out at parent’s assembly

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 24
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 Disgust Scenarios
You step in some dog mess Someone has been sick in class

Your hands are covered in mud You find a fly in your ice cream

You smell something horrible It’s something you don’t like for tea ( liver
and sprouts)

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 25
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 2: Behaviour Tool kit
Most children require frequent verbal prompts and visual clues to help them remember their
individual communication or behavioural targets
The tool kit provides the opportunity to develop a personalised system which can be used by the
child, their parents and teaching staff in a variety of settings.
Instructions for Assembly Photocopy sheets pp 27-29 onto card. Cut out the tool box and lid, and attach to another sheet of A4
card, as shownin the instructions on sheet 27. Cut out the ‘tools’ (pp28-29) and place in the tool box.
Instructions for Use * The number of ‘tools’ required will vary with each child.
Example 1 Example 1: Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder are likely to have been given strategies to deal
with situations they find difficult. These strategies can be discussed with the child, and then written
on the back of a ‘tool’.
Aaron finds assembly difficult, and his strategy to deal with this is to: -
• sit on your special carpet (a carpet tile)
• close his eyes
Before going into assembly, Aaron takes the ‘tools’ out of his tool kit to remind himself of what he
needs to do. He can carry the ‘tools’ into assembly.
Example 2 Benjamin flaps his hands when excited and sometimes shouts out in class. Therefore, his tool kit will
include: -
• hands on the table
• no shouting
The teacher or support assistant will ask Benjamin to take the ‘tools’ out of the box, turn them over
so he can see his rules, and keep them on his table during the lesson.
Example 3 The ‘tools’ in the tool box can carry reminders of the rules of social communication: -
• good sitting
• look at the person you are talking to
• take turns when talking
• think about the same thing etc.
These will be practised in a group setting, for example, in a Social Use of Language Programme
(Rinaldi), but children can then be given a personalised ‘tool kit’ to help them remember the rules
during daily activities.
Example 4 Active listening should be encouraged in children with communication or learning difficulties.
Appropriate phrases can be written on the back of the ‘tools’, and then used as a reminder for the
child. Phrases might include: -
• I need help please
• I didn’t understand. Please can you say it again?
• You’re talking too fast. Slow down please.
A list of phrases with pictures is available in the Visual Cue Cards, Prag4 (Black Sheep Press).
Example 5 Children with phonological delay or disorder need frequent reminders to use a particular sound
in words, especially when moving to phrase or sentence level. The ‘tools’ in the tool kit can carry
specific information and targets to prompt the child.
Daniel needs to remember to use ‘k’ at the beginning of words. His tool kit will include: -
(a) a visual reminder of the sound e.g. ‘K’ plus Nuffield picture/Jolly Phonics or similar.
(b) some key words and phrases to remember e.g. ‘Come here’, ‘I can’t do this’, ‘Kick’, ‘Kevin’ (his best
friend)
(c) a situation where he will use the ‘k’ sound e.g. I will remember to use my ‘k’ sound when I go to
the office to get the key to the pencil cupboard.
Example 6 Learned phrases to use in the classroom can sometimes be useful for children who are passive,
under confident or, who have problems with consistent use of grammar. Write their set phrase on the
back of a ‘tool’ and use as a reminder. Phrases might include: -
• Please can I have-----------?
• I need ----------please?
• Good morning Mrs. Smith
A final suggestion You may vary the idea of a ‘tool kit’, adapting it to the interests of a particular child or class. It could
for example be changed into a ‘treasure box’ with pictures of jewellry or coins, etc.
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 26
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

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 Tool box
Cut out the two sections along the dotted lines.
Place the main ‘box’ onto a piece of A4 card.
Attach sticky tape along the bottom and sides.
Place the ‘lid’ on the ‘box’ (it will slightly overlap).
Attach sticky tape along the top edge.
The ‘lid’ will now lift.

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 27
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

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Tools

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 28
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

Tools

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 29
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 3: Conversation Planner

The Conversation Planner enables children to organise and rehearse appropriate language and
behaviour to use in a wide variety of settings. This will lead to increased confidence and reduce the
incidence of misinterpretation and breakdown of communication.
Sheet 32, Photocopiable Blank Sheet
Examples of how to use the Communication Planner
Example 1 Sheet 33, Cameron is frequently in trouble for showing aggression in the playground. The problems
stem from his inability to enter and leave games in an appropriate manner. He pushes his way into
play situations and becomes angry if the other children either won’t let him play or finish the game
before he is ready.
The adult and Cameron work through the sheet together – the adult asks the questions and helps
the child through prompting and joint discussion to prepare a choice of appropriate phrases to use.
e.g. “What will you say if you want to play with Ben? Will you say “Oi you – give me your ball” or will
you say “Fancy a game?” etc.
When the planner has been completed, Cameron is given the opportunity to rehearse the phrases he
has chosen in role play games or Playmobil play. He will then go through the planning sheet before
each playtime to help him remember what to do.
* Please note that younger or less able children should only be given one phrase or behaviour to
remember on the planning sheet*.
Example 2 Sheet 34, Marcus has Autistic Spectrum Disorder but is settling well into school routines. In order to
develop independence, the teacher is allowing Marcus to carry out simple tasks. He is very eager to
take his turn in taking the register to the office, but cannot always be trusted to walk sensibly down
the corridor, and is obsessed with going into the toilets and turning on the taps.
This example includes visual cues.
Example 3 Sheet 35, Enya finds much of the Curriculum difficult to access. Instead of asking for help, she
becomes disruptive and shouts out.
Conversation Planners can also be used for speech and language therapy targets.
Example 4 Sheet 36, Benjamin is able to construct simple sentences during formal activities but in daily settings,
he reduces his language to one and two word level. He also speaks very quickly. He has been
learning the rules of good talking.
Example 5 Sheet 37, Kieron needs reminders to use the ‘s’ sound at conversational level. He has successfully
carried out a lot of formal work but is finding it harder to generalise the sound target into every
speech.
Conversational Planning Sheets are ideal for carry over activities at home.

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 30
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 31
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

Example 1

I want to play with

someone at playtime.

Who would you like to What will you do?

play with? 1. Go into the
1. Ben, or playground
2. Dinesh, or 2. Walk up to the
person
3. Amy 3. No Pushing

What will you say? What if they say ‘no’?

1. ‘That looks fun,’ or 1. Say ‘OK. Maybe
2. ‘Can I play?’ later.’
or 2. Find someone else
to play with.
3. ‘Hi Ben, fancy a
game?’

What will you say What will you say if

when you’ve had they stop playing and
enough? you don’t want to?
1. ‘I need a break. 1. Say ‘OK. Break’s
See you later!’ or nearly over anyway’
2. ‘Thanks for the or
game’ 2. ‘OK see you later.’
Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 32
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

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Example 2

Take the register to the office

for Mrs Smith.

What will you do first? Where will you go?

1. Walk slowly to Mrs 1. To the office
Smith’s desk.
2. NO TAPS
2. Pick up the
register

What will you say? What will you do

next?
‘Here’s the register Go straight back to
for Class 2.’ class

Remember! Achieved
Walk slowly.

NO taps

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 33
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

Example 3

I don’t understand this

work

What is it you don’t Who will you ask?

understand? 1. The teacher.
1. Maths 2. The class helper.
2. Page 42

What will you do? What will you say

1. Put up your hand when the teacher
2. Wait…QUIETLY. comes to help you?

‘Will you help me

please?’

Remember! Achieved
1. Sit quietly.
2. Put up your hand.

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 34
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

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Example 4

I need more paper.

Who will you ask? What are the rules for

good talking?
1. Speak slowly
1. Miss Wood.
2. Look at the person you
are talking to.
3. Think about what you
are saying.

What will you do? What will you say?

1. Go to Miss Wood’s ‘I need more paper

desk. please.’
2. Wait.

Did Miss Wood Achieved

understand you?

Yes
No

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 35
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

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Example 5

Speak to someone on the ‘phone.

Remember to use ‘s’ clusters at the
beginning of words.

Who will you ring? What will you do

1. Grandad Stan before you ring?
1. Think about the
or sounds you have been
2. Aunty Stacey working on.
2. Practice saying
some words.

What will you talk Which words will you

about? use?
1. Things you have star
been doing at school school
2. The new Star Wars stickers
film Mrs Spencer

Any others? How did you do?

Luke Skywalker
Star Wars

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 36
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 4: The Magic Circle
This is a useful, visual technique to use with children who are ‘locked’ into cycles of repetitive
behaviour which result in negative reactions from adults or peers.
Instructions Photocopy and cut out two sets of the cards on page 41.
The cards are set out in a circle on the table.

What are
you thinking?

What How are you

happens? feeling?

5 2

What do you What is your

do? body doing?

4 3

Example 1 Kerry has a need to tap her hand on an object if she is feeling anxious. This is manageable in the
classroom, but when lining up in the playground, she frequently ‘hits’ the person next to her. This
results in conflict between Kerry and the person she is standing next to, or being told off by adults
unfamiliar with her difficulties.
Kerry is talked through the ‘Magic Circle’ in a one-to-one setting with a familiar adult.
Card 1: What are you thinking when you line up?
Kerry: “I don’t like standing in line with lots of people and noise around me”
(The adult writes on the card – I don’t like standing in line)
Card 2: How are you feeling when you line up?
Kerry: “Worried…frightened”.
(The adult writes her responses on the card)
Card 3: What is your body doing when you line up?
Kerry: “My face gets hot…my heart beats…my hand starts tapping”.
(The adult writes these responses on the card)
Card 4: What do you do?
Kerry: “hit the person next to me”
(The adult writes the response on the card)
Card 5: What happens then?
Kerry: “I get in a fight…or teachers gets cross”
(The adult writes down the response)
The circle is then discussed again with Kerry and she is shown that by always hitting out – even
though she’s not doing it on purpose – it means that the same thing will keep happening again and
again.
The adult then says “Let’s see if we can change things in a circle…a ‘magic circle!”
Go through each card on the table again.
Card 1: What are you thinking?
Discuss with Kerry that this stays the same.
Lining up is hard for Kerry.

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 37
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

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 Card 2: How are you feeling?
Again, Kerry will still feel worried. This part of the circle won’t change.
Card 3: ditto
but
Card 4: What do you do?
Discuss with Kerry that this part of the circle is what causes trouble. Replace the old card
with a blank card. What else would Kerry do…rather than hit the person next to her?
Kerry: “cross my arms and tap my hand on my own arm”.
(The adult writes this down)
Card 5: What happens?
Replace the old card with a new one and ask Kerry what will happen if she doesn’t
hit anyone.
Kerry: “no arguments…teacher is happy”.
(The adult writes this down)
The ‘magic’ circle is then discussed again with Kerry and she is then encouraged to use the change
of behaviour at break times.

Example 2 Jed is obsessively interested in moths and constantly talks about them in class. He therefore, is
always ‘off topic’, doesn’t listen to the teacher and rarely finishes his tasks.
The magic circle cards are laid out and discussed: -
Card 1: What are you thinking?
Jed: “I like moths”
“I like talking about moths”
Card 2: How are you feeling?
Jed “got to talk”
“happy! – I like moths”
Card 3: What is your body doing?
Jed: “my brain is busy”
“my mouth is talking”
“my ears are not listening”
Card 4: What do you do?
Jed: “keep talking on and on about moths”
Card 5: What happens?
Jed: “get into trouble for talking”
“can’t finish my work”
“other people get cross”
Now discuss how things can be changed.
Card 1: remains the same. Jed still likes moths.
Card 2: remains the same.
Card 3: What is your body doing?
Discuss what Jed can do e.g.
look at the teacher
think about the lesson
keep mouth still
Card 4: What do you do?
Discuss what Jed can do e.g.
keep a picture of a moth on the table
talk about moths at playtime
Card 5: What happens?
get work done
teacher will be happy.

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 38
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017

 What are you thinking?

How are you feeling? What is your body doing?

What do you do? What happens?

? ?

Practical Pragmatics, Prag 6 © Black Sheep Press 2006, Helen Rippon. It is permitted for the licensee to photocopy this sheet for use in their clinic/school. 39
Caniateir llungopïo’r daflen hon ar gyfer ei defnyddio mewn clinig/ysgol. Tá sé ceadaithe ag an cheadúnaí an leathanach seo a fótachóipeáil le húsáid i gclinic/scoil s’acu.
Black Sheep Press, 67, Middleton, Cowling, Keighley, W. Yorks, BD22 0DQ, England. Tel.+44(0)1535 631346; email: alan@blacksheeppress.co.uk ; web: www.blacksheep-epress.com

Licensed to: Westmorland School, W114270, 6/6/2017