Collecting and analyzing a language sample is a critical component of a language evaluation for any child that is producing words. These videos model language sample collection using the Leaders Project SLAM cards, which are included in your Diagnostic Resources binder and can also be printed here. Language samples can also be collected during play or elicited using a wordless picture book. When it is prctical, it is easiest to type the child's productions in real time into a Word document, but sometimes we need to write utterances by hand and/or record the language sample to trascribe later. Analysis of the language sample will be conducted using the Language Sample Analysis worksheets and developmental norms in your Resource Binder. Depending on the age and language level of the child, the sample can be analyzed in terms of mean length of utterance, semantic roles, morphology, syntax, narrative structure, vocabulary, and/or pragmatics.
The PLS-5 is a comprehensive standardized language assessment for children up to 7 years old. It is used widely due to the fact that it covers a wide age span, doesn't rely solely on parent report, and provides standard scores. It also looks at preverbal skills, which is useful for children who are not yet talking. However, it can be a difficult test to administer due to the large number of manipulatives that need to be managed. It is also important to understand its psychometric weaknesses and limitations, which are clearly outlined here. These videos model administration of the PLS-5 and describe the scoring procedure.
The OWLS II is often used with children age three and older. It is not a very useful measure for children who are preverbal, but for children who are verbal and over age 3, it is easier to administer than the PLS-5 as it doesn't require the management of manipulatives. It also has SIGNIFICANT psychometric weaknesses. I use it rarely.
For children who are preverbal or minimally verbal and for whom a language is not appropriate, we may administer the REEL-3. The REEL-3 is completed entirely through caregiver report.
While standardized testing is a useful component of assessment, it is neither the most important or the most valid. Watch this video to learn about the strengths and limitations of standardized testing.