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Language

April 04, 2008

Language

Language is a code that we learn to use in order to communicate ideas and express our wants and needs. Reading, writing, gesturing, and speaking are all forms of language.

Language consists of several key areas:

Vocabulary - Semantics:
Refers to acquisition of words and their meaning. Vocabulary can be either "receptive" - what you understand, or "expressive" - what you are able to use. Instructional areas might be one or two word concepts, using or understanding verbs, adjectives, prepositions, categorization, definition, words with multiple meanings, analogies, figurative language and implied meanings.

Syntax - Morphology
Refers to using correct word order and grammar. Some language problems require step by step instruction of plurals, possessives, verb tense, pronouns, Wh-questions, or sentence construction.

Pragmatics
Refers to actually using language to communicate. Students might need direct instruction on listening, question comprehension, problem solving, conversational skills, taking turns, and exchanging information.

From: "Questions and Answers About Language." Retrieved 6/05/06 from American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Web Site: www.asha.org.

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