Receptive language disorders occur when individuals have trouble understanding words they read. Expressive language disorders are characterized by having trouble speaking with others and expressing thoughts and feelings. Language disorder is not hearing impairment. Students with language disorder, which may be referred to as receptive-expressive disorder, have difficulty expressing themselves and understanding what others are saying, however, they are able to produce sounds and their speech can be understood by others.

Here are ways to support students with language disorder:

• Allow students extra time to form a verbal response.
• Encourage students to take instructions and put them in their own words.
• Create a visual system of signs and pictures to help students follow directions.

References

Kaderavek, J. N. (2015). Language disorders in children: Fundamental concepts of assessment and intervention. Boston: Pearson.

Understood for All Inc. (2020). Language disorders: What you need to know. https://www.understood.org/en/learning-thinking-differences/child-learning-disabilities/communication-disorders/what-are-language-disorders