Collect It!
Name two contexts that make good language samples.
Narrative, explanation, description, directions, or spontaneous conversation.
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when transcribing?
Translating instead of recording exactly what the student produced.
A student repeatedly says, “Yesterday I go to the park.” What language pattern do you notice?
Difficulty with verb tense (past tense).
A student consistently uses 2–3 word utterances. Name one instructional strategy.
Sentence expansion, modeling longer utterances, sentence frames, or sentence combining.
Why should teachers and interpreters share language observations?
To gain a more complete picture of the student's language across settings and plan instruction collaboratively.
Why is it helpful to collect language samples in multiple contexts instead of just one?
Students may demonstrate different language skills depending on the task or environment.
Should you "clean up" grammar errors when transcribing?
No. Record exactly what the student signs or says.
A student uses rich vocabulary but fragmented sentences. Which area should instruction target?
Sentence structure/syntax.
A student frequently answers WH-questions incorrectly. What is one instructional modification?
Explicitly teach WH-question types using visuals, modeling, or scaffolded practice.
An interpreter notices the student signs more complex language with peers than in class. What should happen next?
Share observations with the educational team and consider them when planning instruction and supports.
How many utterances are recommended for a robust language sample?
Approximately 50 utterances (or another sufficient sample to identify patterns).
If a student uses ASL with English influence (or SimCom), should you translate into perfect English?
No. Transcribe the language as it was produced to preserve meaningful patterns.
Why is it usually better to focus on one or two recurring patterns rather than every error?
Prioritizing foundational needs makes instruction more targeted, manageable, and effective.
A student repeatedly says “thing” instead of specific nouns. What instructional change could you make?
Explicit vocabulary instruction, semantic mapping, picture supports, or modeling precise word choices.
True or False: Language sample analysis should be completed by one person working independently. WHY?
False. Collaboration among teachers, interpreters, SLPs, and other team members strengthens interpretation and instructional planning.
BONUS: LAST QUESTION!
You collect a language sample and notice that a student tells engaging stories but consistently omits past tense markers and uses mostly simple sentences. What should you do next?
Prioritize those patterns for instruction by explicitly teaching past tense and sentence expansion through authentic storytelling activities, then collect another language sample later to monitor progress.