Language Delay and Expression
Language is the basis for all writing. This statement seems obvious yet many teachers and parents seek to improve written expression without adequate attention to the development of oral language.
The programmes used at The Sydney Learning Difficulties Centre aim to supply this need to develop oral language.
Children need to be able to both hear and dIstinguish the basic sounds which make up the English language. Many children with good hearing have difficulty in distinguishing between similar sounds. This ability is called phonemic awareness. It is critical for reading and spelling. Phonemic awareness can be taught through systematic explicit instruction that is tailored to the needs of the student.
Some children also need eplicit help with grammar and vocabulary. The vocabulary commonly used at home is not wide enough to cope with the demands of classroom discussion and reading, especially for students.