Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Blog #6 - Releasing Your Full Potential
As teachers we want to release the full potential in our students and in ourselves. What is one (or two) of the most important things you have learned so far about language and/or communication disorders and how will knowing this help you be a better teacher of ALL students with disabilities?
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One of the most important things I've learned thus far regarding language is the stages of language development. I think it's important to understand the different stages and what is typically developing at which ages. Many times we don't understand the speech of a student and we assume it's a problem but it's just developmental. Another important aspect of language are the cultural differences to be aware of. A child learning another language takes time and takes several years to be academically proficient in the language. We need to take that into factor when we are assessing our ELL students. It doesn't mean they don't know the material, they are still developing the language.
ReplyDeleteLanguage stages and cultural differences are two important components of understanding our students' language.
ReplyDeleteI think it is important to remember the students that appear to be inattentive may have a language disorder. Especially in the younger grades, if students appear to be lost in their own world, they may actually have a receptive language disorder. Knowing that so many other disabilities have speech or language difficulties as well makes me rethink my impression of kids that are "zoning out". There could be much more going on.
ReplyDeleteYou are correct that receptive language disorders can be hidden disabilities.
DeleteOne thing I have learned that will be extremely beneficial are the stages of language development. These stages are helpful when working with children with language development issues because I will be able to identify areas of concern and assist the child in receiving the necessary services for them to succeed. I also learned that there are a lot of different components that can come into play when it comes to speech and language. For example, if a baby isn't receiving adequate social interaction it could could be possible that the child's speech develops slower than those that are constantly being talked to.
ReplyDeleteI agree that knowing the language stages is important for anyone who works with children.
DeleteLearning the different stages of language development is very helpful in understanding where a child might be as far as what they can express and understand. I also never really paid attention to how much language is not just what we hear but it is a full body experience. Seeing a person as they speak, especially if there are deficits or differences in language is extremely helpful.
ReplyDeleteI think one of the most important things I have learned about language/communication development is what is appropriate for age levels. At times I catch myself becoming paranoid that a student,neice/nephew, etc. is delayed in their language when realistically they are at their target development level. Also, being aware of the many types of language disorders is extremely important so that the most important tools and interventions are given to our students. We also know when we may need to refer for extra support services.
ReplyDeleteI so agree with you.
ReplyDeleteI believe the most important things I have learned are the stage of language, and the break down to the different aspects of language and speech. It is extremely important to know what is excepted of a child at different ages, so one can provide early intervention if needed. Even if the child does not necessary have a speech/language disability, he or she may have a developmental lag, and recognition of where he or she should be at will help acknowledge the need for intervention. Also, understanding the breakdown of language and speech can help someone identify exactly what skill the student should be working on. Even if you are not a speech path, as a teacher you can help implement these skills within your curriculum so the student is practicing them as much as possible.
ReplyDeleteKnowing the stages of language is critical for any teacher
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