Functional communication training primarily benefits a student with an intellectual disability by:

Functional communication training is designed to enhance a student's ability to communicate effectively, particularly for those with an intellectual disability. This approach focuses on teaching individuals alternative ways to express their needs and wants, which can significantly improve their overall ability to participate in everyday interactions. By providing an alternative response, the student learns to use functional communication methods, such as sign language, picture exchange systems, or speech-generating devices, which helps to address their needs in a more effective manner.

This strategy not only benefits the individual by reducing frustration associated with communication barriers but also promotes positive social interactions and independence. The essence of functional communication training lies in its practical application to real-life scenarios, enabling students to advocate for themselves and fulfill their needs appropriately.

The other options, while they may depict relevant educational aspects, do not capture the core objective of functional communication training. Improving handwriting skills, teaching academic vocabulary, or preparing for standardized assessments are not the primary focus of this training, which is fundamentally about enhancing a student's communicative capabilities in a functional and meaningful context.