This article addresses the continuity from early speech-language delays to later learning problems in school and recommends use of "language organization disorder" to describe the delay. Chronologies of the difficulties and methods for early detection are provided. A table summarizes 11 research studies on early language delays and later reading…

Using a theoretical model of foreign language anxiety, this study of 96 college students of Japanese examines how language anxiety is related to Japanese language learning. Results suggest factors other than test anxiety, e.g., speech anxiety, fear of failing, and negative attitudes toward the class. A questionnaire is included. (Contains 63…

This study examined how reinforcer rate, quality, delay, and response effort combined to influence the choices of six adolescents with emotional disturbance and learning difficulties and the feasibility of an assessment methodology based on matching theory for determining differential responsiveness to reinforcer and response dimensions. Results…

Describes a service model developed by the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, for ensuring the accurate exchange of information so that children will get the specific help they need for their situation either in or outside of the school The model is based on a process of observation, referral, evaluation, diagnosis, service, review, and evaluation.…

A framework is presented for implementing standardized achievement testing. Fundamental concepts and formats of the tests are reviewed, and useful references are listed. Standardized tests are considered and categorized in terms of administration format, functions, validity, and type (cognitive versus noncognitive). Thirteen basic recommendations…

A format is suggested for testing using free association techniques. In this system, students are given key words or phrases and asked to relate as much relevant information as they can. Scoring techniques, strengths, and weaknesses of such open-ended approaches are discussed, along with possible suggestions for implementation. (PB)

The results of this case study of a 15-year-old dropout indicate the potential usefulness of incorporating process mnemonics, particularly in the form of allegorical characterizations and stories, within mathematical instructional strategies for the learning disabled. (15 references) (JJK)

Special education administrators (n=36) in Utah were surveyed concerning use of prereferral intervention with students having learning difficulties. Administrators were uncertain whether the approaches maintained students in general education. They did believe, however, that the process is followed by teachers and results in fewer referrals for…

Offers ideas for helping at-risk students that take into account the everyday life circumstances that inadequately prepare children for academic or social opportunities. Proposes programs that engage the community and school in collaborative efforts. Describes a model program, Communities in Schools, that serves students through business, agency,…

Argues that student comprehension difficulties are often diagnosed as reading problems, even though the problem extends to other learning skills. Considers the issue of comprehension in the context of reading, and examines aspects of the issue that extend to teacher communications. Suggest ways to help students understand social studies material.…

Pennsylvania's Secondary Instructional Support program addresses such problems as failing grades, lack of classroom participation, lack of time on task, difficulties with basic skills, and poor attendance. It provides school districts with training and guided practice in six areas: collaboration, instructional assessment, instructional adaptation,…

The teaching of learning strategies calls for an understanding of the philosophy underlying cognitive strategy instruction as well as the specific instructional processes that promote student independence, provide information that students need to use strategies, and specifically teach generalization. This paper describes the content of strategies…

Argues that Tourette's Syndrome and tic disorders occur commonly among school-age children; that students affected with the condition often experience recognizable school, behavioral-emotional, and interpersonal difficulties; and that they may benefit if school psychologists identified the disorder and participated in the treatment. Suggests that…

Suggests that the prewriting phase of the writing process is the most important and that a promising approach to the prewriting phase for students with learning difficulties is called Web-making (also called cognitive mapping, idea mapping, patterned note taking, construct procedure, graphic overview, networking, flowcharting, and semantic…

This study examined the effect of delayed reinforcement on mathematics performance by four fourth graders and the effect of programming stimuli common to reinforcement conditions on the maintenance of their performance. Participants exhibited similar levels of responding during intermittent and continuous reinforcement. Responding continued for a…