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Where Does Speech Fit In? Spoken English in a Bilingual Context


Conclusion

About the Author

Is He Still Talking?

Factors Involved in Spoken English Development

Sign vs. Speech

Realistic Expectations

Using Bilingual Strategies

Conclusion

References

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The purpose of this paper has been to begin a dialogue about how we perceive deaf and hard of hearing children's speech, language and communication development. The goal for every child should be to develop his or her language skills in order to ensure literacy and academic success. In addition to language development, we need to maximize each child's communication skills-whether they are written, spoken, or signed. By learning from current research, especially in the area of bilingualism and second language acquisition, professionals and parents can begin to make informed decisions about how to best educate each deaf and hard of hearing child. Long-held beliefs and traditional methods, as well as popular trends that are not yet fully developed, must be objectively considered and modified as necessary in light of this new research. By perfecting old techniques and continuing to adopt theoretically sound new practices, the education of deaf and hard of hearing children can evolve to better serve the needs of each child and his or her family.

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Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center

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Last modified May 4, 1998
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Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center
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