Praxis SLP Licensure Exam

During communication therapy, which technique is most likely to enhance speech production in a child with severe articulation errors?

1. Modeling and imitation

2. Visual phonics

3. Phoneme segmentation

4. Prosody training

The correct answer is: Modeling and imitation

The technique that is most likely to enhance speech production in a child with severe articulation errors is modeling and imitation. This approach directly engages the child in learning correct speech sounds through listening and replicating what they hear. Modeling provides an auditory and visual example of correct speech production, allowing the child to observe and then imitate the sounds, which is especially crucial for those with significant articulation challenges. The act of imitation reinforces the learning process, as children learn by copying the speech patterns and sounds of a model, typically the therapist. This technique is particularly effective because it addresses both the cognitive and motor components of speech production, making it a fundamental strategy in speech therapy for children facing severe articulation difficulties. In the context of the other options: visual phonics focuses on linking speech sounds with visual cues, which can be helpful but may not provide the immediate corrective feedback needed for severe articulation errors. Phoneme segmentation involves breaking down words into their individual sounds, which can assist with phonological awareness rather than directly improving articulation. Prosody training emphasizes the rhythm and intonation of speech, which, while important for overall speech clarity and naturalness, does not specifically target the articulation of individual sounds. Thus, while all techniques have their merit, modeling and imitation stands out