Language and Communication Difficulties

Abstract

Reviews the book, Language and communication difficulties by Dimitra Hartas (2005). The book is one of nine books in Continuum's Series on Special Educational Needs. The author sees 'language and communication skills as central to human functioning, in that learning, social adjustment, emotional maturity and the development of interpersonal skills all depend on them.' He sets out the aim and purpose of the book, which are that educational practitioners understand the complexities of both children's language and communication needs for school learning, and language and communication difficulties, and provides suggested strategies within curriculum learning to support these children's needs. The main focus is on the curriculum and approaches for primary-aged children, with less for secondary practitioners. Practitioners need to be aware of the limited evidence base for practice, particularly for adolescent learners, and that much more research needs to be done in this area. Teachers, learning support practitioners, classroom assistants and parents will find this book a helpful and useful starting-block. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)