Using Language Sample Analysis to Assess Spoken Language Production in Adolescents

Area of Science:

• Speech and Language Pathology
• Developmental Psychology
• Computational Linguistics

Background:

• Language sample analysis (LSA) is crucial for understanding spoken language production.
• Systematic Analysis of Language Transcripts (SALT) software provides tools for LSA.
• Reference databases of language samples from typical speakers (ages 3-18) are available within SALT.

Observation:

• Over 30 years of data collection from diverse conversational and narrative contexts.
• SALT software enables comparison of individual language samples to age- and grade-matched peer databases.
• Case studies demonstrate how deviations from database means (in standard deviations) highlight language strengths and weaknesses.

Findings:

• Comparison with normative data effectively identifies language measures that differ from typical adolescent development.
• The SALT software facilitates efficient and standardized language sample analysis.
• Standard deviation measures provide a quantitative approach to interpreting language sample findings.

Implications:

• LSA using SALT is a powerful tool for documenting language use in real-world speaking situations.
• Identifying specific language demands and challenges informs targeted interventions.
• Strong spoken communication skills are foundational for literacy, academic success, and social integration.