Speech / Language Impairment

A speech-language impairment is a communication skill which differs so significantly in manner or content from that of peers that it is apparent, disrupts communication or affects emotional, social, intellectual or educational growth. A speech-language impairment may range from mild to profound. It may be congenital or acquired. Speech-language impairment refers to impairments in the areas of articulation, fluency, voice or language. Individuals may demonstrate one or any combination of speech-language impairments. A speech-language impairment may be a primary disability or it may be secondary to other disabilities.

Students with speech/language disabilities may exhibit the following behaviors in a general education setting:

• articulation errors
• stuttering
• language delay
• inappropriate pitch, loudness, voice quality