Speech / Language Disorders

Definition   Speech and Language Disorders refer to problems in communication and related areas such as oral motor function.  These delays and disorders range from simple sound substitutions to the inability to understand or use language or use the oral-motor mechanism for functional speech and feeding.  Some causes of speech and language disorders include hearing loss, neurological disorders, brain injury, mental retardation, drug abuse, physical impairments such as cleft lip or palate, and vocal abuse or misuse.  Frequently, however, the cause is unknown.

Documentation Guidelines   A report from a speech therapist or school records, which details the disability, includes a statement of functional impact or limitation of the disability on learning or major life activity.

Potential Accommodations

·         Modifications of assignments such as one-to-one presentation or use of computer with voice synthesizer

·         Substitutions for oral class reports