Described is a program developed to teach a visual symbol system of nonspeech communication for persons who are severely mentally handicapped and multiply handicapped. Included in the receptive language program are descriptions of the following program components: candidate selection guidelines, interdisciplinary assessment, materials (visual…

The paper outlines an educational scheme whereby teachers of severely mentally retarded and multiply-handicapped children (including deaf/blind children) can assess the prelanguage levels of children on a hierarchical language schedule, which culminates in the acquisition of natural gesture. (Author)

The Bliss symbol nonverbal communication system, based on a logical visual language, is described; the use of Blissymbolics to provide functional communication for nonverbal cerebral-palsied children is explained; and areas for future application and development of the system are suggested. (Author/IM)

The value of visual literacy, the ability to recognize and interpret natural and manmade symbols, to a student of foreign language is stressed. Three groups of nonverbal signs--kinesic elements, environmental elements, and objects invested with a special meaning--are discussed, and methods for teaching visual literacy described. (RM)