The Action-Communication-Expression program, an extension of a speech communication class in a Houston (Texas) high school, involves visual and concrete communication, such as photography, script writing, and filmmaking. Students in two speech classes work in small groups of four or five, independently of the teacher, after receiving initial information and instructions. Students devise a theme for a photographic essay and then take required camera shots around the school grounds, eventually presenting their photo-essays to the class. They also study television, print media, and advertising, for which they create their own advertising layouts and film commercials. Cameras for the photographic project belong to the students, while film and flash cubes are supplied by a speech fund. The film cameras belong to the speech department, and outside resources include local television studios, newspapers, and libraries. This program provides students with new avenues of creative self-expression. (An outline of the course is included.) (HOD)