SLHS 115: Intro to Communicative Disorders – Exam 1 Study Guide (Fall 2025)

A set of vocabulary flashcards to assist in studying key terms and concepts related to communicative disorders.

Communication

Exchange of ideas between sender & receiver using verbal, nonverbal, or written means.

Speech

Physical production of sounds involving respiration, phonation, and articulation.

Language

A rule-based system of symbols, encompassing form, content, and use.

Impairment

Loss or reduction in function.

Disability

Reduced ability to meet daily needs due to impairment.

Disorder

Significant difficulty in communication compared to peers.

Difference

Variation not considered a disorder (e.g., dialect, bilingualism).

Communication Disorders

Includes domains of speech, language, and hearing.

Etiologies

Causes of disorders, either developmental (before/during birth) or acquired (due to injury, stroke).

Aphasia

Acquired language disorder often resulting from brain injury, such as a stroke.

Dyslexia

Difficulty with decoding and word recognition.

Dysgraphia

Difficulty with writing or spelling.

ASHA

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, key professional organization.

Broca's area

Brain region associated with speech production.

Wernicke's area

Brain region associated with language comprehension.

Mean Length of Utterance (MLU)

Average morphemes per utterance, used to track language development.

Neurodiversity movement

Views conditions like ASD as natural variations rather than solely disorders.

SMART goals

A method for goal setting that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Cultural Takeaways

Acknowledgment of varying communication norms across cultures.