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6 Ways to Support Oral Language Deficits

Oral Language

6 Ways to Support Oral Language Deficits

Oral language is a crucial part of daily interactions. People who struggle with oral language have difficulties understanding and/or communicating clearly, in speaking and writing, which can have a considerable impact across all academic areas. Keep reading to learn about 6 Ways to Support Oral Language Deficits and enhance communication in your classroom.

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1. Interactive Storytelling and Reading
  • Read Aloud: Regularly read books with expressive voices and discuss the stories.
  • Story Retelling: Encourage the child to retell stories in their own words, focusing on sequencing and details. Provide modeling and scaffolding.
2. Vocabulary Development
  • Explicit Teaching: Introduce new words with visuals, definitions, and examples. Make connections between new vocabulary and previously learned words and concepts.
  • Word Games: Play word games to make learning fun. Focus on games that encourage children to use descriptive language (such as Guess Who, Pictionary Jr., and Hedbanz) or to explore words by finding common features and semantic relationships (such as Wordplay for Kids!, Scattergories Junior, and TriBond Kids).

Five Key Components of the Science of Oral Language for Educators

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3. Grammar and Sentence Structure
  • Model Correct Grammar: Consistently use correct grammar and sentence structure.
  • Sentence Expansion: Practice expanding simple sentences by adding details.
4. Listening Skills
  • Active Listening Activities: Engage in games like Simon Says and follow multi-step directions.
  • Listening Comprehension: Discuss what was heard and ask questions to ensure understanding.

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5. Expressive Language
  • Conversation Practice: Have regular conversations, encouraging full expression of thoughts.
  • Role-Playing: Use role-playing to practice conversational skills in different contexts.
6. Speech-Language Therapy
  • Professional Support: Work with a speech-language pathologist for individualized assessment and intervention.
  • Therapeutic Techniques: Follow specific exercises recommended by the therapist to target language deficits.