The Practical SLP: Middle School

The Practical SLP: Middle School...

Jul 27, 2013 by Teresa Sadowski MA CCC-SLP

Back in 2007, when I was taking a computer course and needed to put some teacher training together I chose to write about the roles and responsibilities of the School Speech Language Pathologist. It was a nice introduction for the teachers and for those who paid attention, I think they learned something about our field. This was just before RTI, core curriculum and the new teacher evaluation process took over. Reflecting on what I wrote 6 years ago, our job hasn’t changed that much…..it’s just been added to. So take a look, please note the word “Practical” in the title. At the time when all these changes were looming I thought it was appropriate (and still do). The Practical SLP powerpoint 2007 copy Teresa...

Speech Language Pathology Humor……..A linguistic dissection of 7 annoying teenage sounds...

Jun 6, 2013 by Teresa Sadowski MA CCC-SLP

I will be the first one to admit most Speech Language Pathology Humor is pretty lame. However, I came across this article and short video and got a huge laugh out of it. Some day when I have time I’ll have to write an article on the humorous side of our profession. We all know the way our field is going we all need a good laugh. A linguistic dissection of 7 annoying teenage...

Games Can Be Fantastic Therapy Tools...

Dec 31, 2012 by Teresa Sadowski MA CCC-SLP

I have always said that I can turn or modify any game into an educational experience. Me at my advanced years was thinking only about board games. Over the years I’ve been able to teach almost every single language skill through conventional games. Unfortunately, those days are numbered because it’s hard to collect data when your having fun. I was extremely pleased when I came across this article on Geekslp.com Angry Birds Educational Tool. This article truly validates what I already know. I am so glad the younger generation of SLP’s are able to see the value of games in learning. I love angry birds but never even thought to bring it into my therapy as a tool but I have used it as a reward. Why I never thought of this I don’t know. ...

Out of Range Testing for Severely Impaired Students...

Nov 5, 2012 by Teresa Sadowski MA CCC-SLP

This question has come up again? Many therapists are put in positions where they have to test severely involved students who are perhaps not even on their caseload or in outside placements. I know the law says we have to test but how do you do this and make it valid. As far as I know other than some checklists, there is nothing out that that really looks at functional language. I’ve seen the checklists and often you have to modify them to fit the students needs and levels. Then what do the results tell you anyway? There’s usually not cut off to say therapy will be beneficial or not or even guidelines to help you with goals. Seriously, how do you put an age or level on the language of the severely impaired....

Survey Says……..(with comments)...

Oct 29, 2012 by Teresa Sadowski MA CCC-SLP

Thank you to the Speech Language Pathologists who participated in this speech and language assessment survey. I received responses from 9 people. Granted that isn’t a large number but I’ve read scholarly papers written with less data. I’m using the acronyms in this report since we all know what they are:). Sorry about the comments but I couldn’t help myself. It is my survey so I can do that. Please feel free to share your comments and questions. What is your standard test battery? The CELF-4 was the overwhelming test of choice for most therapists. The CASL and the OWLS were most frequently mentioned as second choices. For vocabulary testing most preferred the PPVT/EVT combo to the ROWPVT/EOWPVT. Then there is the good old Goldman Fristoe. What else could you use for articulation? It’s...

When does a Middle School Child need a Speech and Language Evaluation-reprint...

Oct 27, 2012 by Teresa Sadowski MA CCC-SLP

Hi Everyone. I have to apologize for being so lax about posting. I had the grandest plans for this month, writing about the speech and language assessment process. Well to make excuses, I can tell you that work has exploded. I work part time for a school system doing evaluations and they’ve decided to move up their time line on all of the evaluations. I actually think it’s a great idea but it shoves more work into my limited time. And lets not forget those pesky report write up that mostly take place at home. I also picked up another wonderful part time job at a vocational high school which will be a new experience for me. They too have me testing to meet deadlines. Since I love evaluating I don’t mind being busy...