ch 7?

Relations between Early Speech and Literacy

  • Interconnection of Early Speech and Literacy

    • There exists a close relationship between early speech development and emerging literacy skills.

    • Issues with speech sound development can impact language acquisition as well as literacy proficiency later on.

Speech Sound Development Disorders

  • Impact on Reading Achievement

    • Children with difficulties in segmenting sounds may face risks for later reading difficulties.

  • Articulation vs. Language

    • Contrary to popular belief, articulation issues can affect language development depending on disorder severity.

    • For example, inability to perceive sounds (e.g., absent final s, aspiration in h) may hinder reading skills.

Understanding Language and Symbols

  • Reading Comprehension

    • Merely recognizing words (calling) does not suffice; understanding the symbols and meanings behind words is crucial for reading comprehension.

  • Metacognitive Skills

    • Metacognition refers to conscious awareness of one's knowledge.

    • Questions to consider: Are you aware of what you know? Do you realize what you do not know?

Phonological Awareness and Metaphonological Skills

  • Phonological Awareness vs. Phonemic Awareness

    • Phonological awareness encompasses a broad understanding of sound structures, including syllables, rhymes, and sound patterns.

    • Phonemic awareness is a specific subset dealing with individual sounds (phonemes) within words.

    • Students must differentiate:

    • Phonological awareness: overall awareness of sounds

    • Phonemic awareness: ability to manipulate individual sounds

Importance of Phonological Awareness Skills

  • Characteristics of Strong Readers

    • Strong phonological awareness correlates with good reading ability; it includes understanding syllable structure, prefixes, suffixes, and sound combinations.

  • EXAMPLES

    • Identifying the initial sounds or syllables in words is essential; children may struggle to segment sounds they hear.

Coding and Phonological Processing

  • Phonological Coding

    • Coding involves translating auditory stimuli into written form.

    • Example: Knowing "sh" represents a distinct sound aids in writing words like "ship."

  • Phonological Processing

    • Involves using sounds to process verbal information in both oral and written forms.

    • Essential for developing literacy; relies on working and long-term memory.

Assessment and Appraisal

  • Transitioning to the assessment of articulation and phonological disorders.

  • Case Study

    • Introduction to two children in need of assessment: Lillian (difficult to understand) and Collyn (slurred speech, potential drooling).

    • Importance of individualized assessments to address differing speech issues.

Initial Assessment Steps

  • Gather history and conduct interviews to obtain relevant information about each child's speech.

  • Perform basic diagnostic testing, starting with a speech sound assessment for both children, evaluating intelligibility and sound inventory.

Key Assessment Procedures

  • Hearing Screening

    • Standard frequencies tested: 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz at 25 dB.

  • Oral Examination

    • Assess oral structures and function, looking at symmetry, coloration, and overall articulator strength.

Understanding Standardized Tests' Disadvantages

  • Limitations of standardized tests (e.g., GFTA, Arizona):

    • Lack of conversational context

    • Potential cultural and linguistic biases

    • Inability to address complex sound patterns (e.g., phonology vs. articulation).

Data Collection and Interpretation

  • Importance of detailed transcription during assessments to inform clinical decisions.

  • Use both two-way and five-way scoring systems for comprehensive understanding of misarticulations.

Conclusion and Further Study Points

  • Continue with reading and discussions for deeper understanding.

  • The accuracy in assessment and appraising speech issues lays the groundwork for effective intervention plans and therapies.

Recommendations

  • Continuous Learning

    • Understanding of phonological processes is vital for developing effective literacy and communication skills.

  • Emphasis on building rapport with children for effective outcomes in therapy.

  • Encouragement to engage actively with children to foster trust and communication.

Final Notes

  • Stay attentive to children's specific needs, as each may exhibit differing challenges requiring tailored assessments and interventions.