Adolescent Speech-Language-Literacy Disorders:
The ability to understand and use oral language directly affects the ability to read and write. These skills play an important role in achieving academic success. Adolescents entering Middle and High Schools are required to use more complex language than what was required in elementary school. They must understand more difficult vocabulary and develop more advanced sentence structures. They must adapt their communication style to meet the demands of various environments, for example, speaking to authority figures, giving presentations, making announcements, debating, as well as socializing with peers and making new friends. If left unsupported, students with speech and language disorders may experience failures, poor academic success, and feelings of being left behind.
There are many causes of speech and language disorders such as hearing loss, cognitive (attention, memory, reasoning) deficits, motor disorders, social and emotional disorders, heredity factors, disease, and brain pathology. Therefore, the remediation techniques must be individualized to meet the unique needs of each student served. Speech and Language Pathologists are committed to the identification and remediation of speech and language disorders, by providing personalized interventions that promote academic success.
For more information regarding speech and language disorders visit the American- Speech-Language Association Website, asha.org