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Step-by-Step Speech/Language Evaluation of MLL and Culturally Diverse Students

9:00-10:30               Articulation/Phonological Assessment Considerations of MLL Students
10:30-10:45             Brief Break
10:45-12:15             Language Assessment Considerations of MLL students
12:15-12:30             Questions and Discussion

 Have you ever been asked to evaluate the speech or language of a student that is not a primary English speaker?  Have you ever evaluated a student from a cultural background of which you feel you have little experience?  We have ALL been there and it can be very intimidating.  There are many factors to take into consideration as you embark on these types of evaluations. Every student is different no matter their language or culture. We will break down the steps in evaluating speech and language for students to reduce stress and provide the best, most unbiased results to appropriately serve your students.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Formulate what questions to ask before beginning your evaluation of an MLL student.
  2. Explain phonotactic constraints in a language.
  3. Identify ways to reduce assessment bias of MLL and culturally diverse students in speech/language testing
  4. Determine appropriate targets for treatment of MLL students in speech/language treatment.

 Melanie Strait, M.S, CCC-SLP is a bilingual English/Spanish SLP with over 24 years of experience.  She obtained her undergraduate and Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from East Carolina University with a minor in Spanish.  She began her career in public schools in Salem, Oregon and has since worked in many settings and states.  With additional experience in SNFs, home health, and private practice, she has worked to improve the communication skills in both young children and adults.  She has worked as an editor for a publishing company, which included extensive work on assisting with the development of the Contextual Probes of Articulation Competence- Spanish (CPAC-Spanish).  She is a member of ASHA SIG 14- Cultural and Linguistic Diversity.  Currently, she is a Central Evaluator for Greenville County Schools with primary evaluation focus of Spanish-speaking MLL students.

Disclosures:

  • The speaker receives a fee for today’s presentation.
  • There are no non-financial disclosures to report.