Program Office

• Speech and Language Overview

       Assistant Principal

                             An Overview of the Speech and Language Program

          Dear Parents and Guardians,

        Your child is currently receiving speech and language services here at school. We are      collaborating with classroom teachers and other support staff to insure that your child receives the maximum benefit from the speech and language program. The program is standards and curriculum based and provides an integrated approach to speech and language therapy. During the 2006-2007 school year we will address the following areas of need via small group          instruction and interactive activities:

·        Auditory Processing- (Strategic listening for information and instruction) Good listing skills are the foundation of speech and language development and usage.

·        Phonemic Awareness-(Analyzing the sounds of language and how these sounds make up words and sentences.)

·        Increasing Mean Length of Utterance- ( Increasing the number and quality of words produced while making requests, labeling objects, describing objects and/or

            asking questions.)

·        Increasing the intelligibility of words in isolation and connected speech.

·        Sequencing and blending of sounds

·        Sequencing of events

·        Decreasing phonological processes (Decreasing consistent error patterns in the articulation of specific words and sounds.)

·        Standard English usage in spoken and written language.

      The integration of the above processes is critical for an individual to be a proficient learner.  The acquisition of knowledge, upon which educational standards are determined, is predicated on the underlying processes of human learning.  The ability to process language is a prerequisite to learning content.  Specifically, the ability to decode, the ability to comprehend written language, the ability to comprehend oral language, the ability to spell, and the ability to think critically are necessary for success in content areas.

     We cannot overemphasize the importance of parental involvement. It is essential to the acquisition of receptive and expressive skills and a crucial component of successful schooling. If you have any questions or concerns you may reach me at (718) 548-1511 or email me at TCorker@schools.nyc.gov

I look forward to hearing from you and working with you.

                                                                                            Sincerely,

                                                                                            Tanya V. Corker ,TSHH