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Language & Pragmatics
Language is broken down into two categories, receptive and expressive language. Pragmatic language is the social component of language.
Receptive Language
Receptive language is the ability to understand or comprehend spoken or written language. Children who have difficulty in receptive language might struggle to follow directions, identify items, or respond to questions.
Expressive Language
Expressive language is the ability to use spoken or written language. Children who have difficulty in expressive language might struggle to use the correct vocabulary, formulate sentences, use correct grammar, or tell a story.
The 5 Domains of Language
A student with a language disorder could present with difficulties in one or more of these areas.
1
Phonology
Phonology is the study of "phonemes," or speech sounds, and the rules or patterns used when combining them.
2
Morphology
Morphology is the study of morphemes, which are the smallest parts of words that carry meaning, and how they are put together.
3
Syntax
Syntax relates to the rules for formulating sentences.
4
Semantics
Semantics relates to the meaning of words and combinations of words.
5
Pragmatics
Pragmatic language refers to social communication, or how we change the way we communicate based on the setting, communication partner, and reason we are communicating.
Resources for Language
Social Communication
ASHA defines pragmatic language as the social rules of language, encompassing how to use language for different purposes, how to adapt it to different situations and listeners, and how to follow conversational rules like taking turns and staying on topic.
Difficulties in this area can lead to challenges in social situations, such as misinterpreting social cues or not understanding abstract language like sarcasm. Click to read more about social communication disorders.
Pragmatic Language Resources
