The Unique Point of View
of the Speech-Language Pathologist
The point of view, as well as the education, training and skills, of the speech-language pathologist is different from the tutor and teacher regarding language.

Language is the currency of the classroom. It is both the content of the curriculum and the learning environment. It is that which one hears and reads in order to learn, as well as that which one speaks or writes to demonstrate what has been learned. Teachers, curriculum developers, and tutors presume language competency. For children with language disorders, the presupposition is not valid. The following aspects of language are critical variables for optimal learning in school:

PHONOLOGY (SOUNDS OF A LANGUAGE)
Processing the sounds to compose words, associating sounds with symbols for reading and spelling. Producing the sounds of language, sequencing them in words.
SEMANTICS (WORDS/CONTENT)
Developing vocabulary, finding words, understanding antonyms, sysnonyms, and word relationships. Using word meanings precisely, flexibly, and efficiently and, possessing an adequate fund of verbally coded knowledge which can be speedily accessed.
MORPHOLOGY (CHANGES IN WORDS)
Comprehending suffixes, prefixes and inflections during speech at word level; recognizing word roots/derevivations. Modifying words to convey precise meanings in speech and written language. SYNTAX (SENTENCES)
Recognizing the effects of word order; grammar; usage and internalizing the rule system to process and express an infinite number of novel utterances. Making correct use of grammar and word order in speech and writing.
DISCOURSE (LANGUAGE BEYOND THE SENTENCE)
Understanding paragraphs, passages; telling stories, relating events; understanding directions, explanations. Communicating beyond the level of the sentence in speech and writing. Elaborating thinking in language, both in conversation and writing.
METALINGUISTICS (UNDERSTANDING HOW LANGUAGE WORKS)
Reflecting on language; Understanding parts of speech, gramatical rules. Developing options for the most effective means of communicating in speech and written language.
PRAGMATICS (SOCIAL LANGUAGE/FUNCTIONAL SKILLS)
Interpreting others' feelings through their language; using language to form and maintain friendships, in general, it is "communicative competence." Using language to meet needs in social contexts Employing the subtle "rules" of communication (topic maintenance, interruptions, turn taking, etc.) in daily life.