Minspeak is an easy way to code vocabulary.Minspeak is a way to code vocabulary that uses multi-meaning icons in short sequences with rule-driven patterns.

Minspeak is a simple and effective way to code vocabulary.

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  Minspeak uses pictures – called icons.

  A Minspeak icon is just a picture – a simple, easily recognized picture. Icons are chosen for a Minspeak system because they are culturally relevant and communicate a wide range of common ideas and topics. Pictures are used before, during and after a person learns to spell or read.

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  Minspeak systematically uses multi-meaning icons.

  Pictures and icons naturally evoke multiple ideas. For example, the word bed can be used to express the idea of a bed, whereas the picture or icon of a bed can express not only the word bed, but also the idea of sleeping, living, being tired, furniture, saying goodnight, underneath, and maybe even the little word but (like in “get your butt out of bed”). Minspeak systematically uses the multiple meanings associated with a single picture.

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  Icons are combined into short sequences to code vocabulary.

  Minspeak icons are combined in 2 or 3 part sequences in order to say all the different ideas that the picture codes. Say drink by sequencing JUICE with VERB. Say thirsty by sequencing JUICE with ADJECTIVE. This is the way Minspeak makes systematic use of multi-meaning icons.

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  Minspeak vocabulary codes follow rules and patterns.

  Minspeak systems are developed with rules and patterns for organizing and coding vocabulary. The person using a Minspeak system learns a small set of pictures – usually less than 100 – then learns the rules for combining those icons into short sequences. As the person learns the rules and patterns, a Minspeak system becomes easier and easier to use.