Communication and Language Basics

Communication

• Interactive exchange of information, ideas, feelings, needs, and desires between and among people.

Dimensions of Speech and Language

• Speech: expression of language with sounds and oral production
• Language: a formalized code used by a group of people

Phonetics and Phonology

• Phonetics: The study of the production, transmission, and reception of speech sounds.
• Phonology: The sound system of a language; phoneme is the smallest unit of sound in a system

Morphology

• Refers to the smallest unit of language that has meaning and which are used
• Can include sounds, syllables, or whole words

Syntax

• Grammar rules
• Arrangement of words

General Education Adaptations for Learners with Difficulty Communicating

• Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Includes multiple means of presentation, expression, and engagement; Providing of different modalities, such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-motor tactile
• Means of presenting lessons includes the use of pictures, videos, hands-on experiential learning

Practical Tips for the Classroom

• Allow the child to sit near the teacher and the blackboard, away from auditory and visual distractions such as the window and the door.
• Get the child's attention before delivering instructions.
• Use visual aids as a supplement to auditory information.
• Speak slowly and clearly without exaggerating speech.
• Simplify directions into short steps.
• Use gestures to clarify information.
• Use peer-mediated instruction so that peers without difficulties can serve as a language model and learning buddies.
• Provide extra time to prepare for oral language activities.
• Model correct language forms and use appropriate wait times (3-5 seconds or more).
• Explicitly teach vocabulary that is needed in the learning context to promote better comprehension.

This quiz explores essential concepts in communication, focusing on speech, language, and their respective dimensions. It delves into phonetics, phonology, morphology, and syntax while also discussing adaptations for learners with communication difficulties. Test your understanding of these foundational elements of language.