Language Impairment (Communication Exceptionality)

Characteristics

Comprehension impairment

Impairment in use of oral, verbal and/or written

May be associated with neurological, psychological, physical or sensory factors

May include one or more of: language delay, dysfluency, voice and articulation development

Improper use of words with a reduced vocabulary

Impacts on Learning

Struggle with articulation and oral communication

Difficulty understanding and processing verbal language

Struggle with phonological processing

Struggle with attention skills

Struggle with written communication

Struggle with reading

May struggle with expanding vocabulary and understanding meaning

Teaching Strategies

Give additional time for student to speak

Provide advance notice and specific expectations for presentations

Allow for use of written prompts during student presentations

Allow student to present in small group instead of whole class

Pair visuals with oral instructions

Pre-teach vocabulary with concrete materials and visuals

Use clear and concise language

Reduce auditory distractions in clss

Develop a cue for the student to focus on listening before important information is given (Ex."Stop, look and listen")