SLP Augmentative and Alternative Communication 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which feature of a speech-generating device (SGD) allows the user to build words letter by letter?
- Semantic compaction
- Alphabet-based access (Correct answer)
- Minspeak encoding
- Core vocabulary grid
Correct answer: Alphabet-based access
Alphabet-based access lets users spell out words letter by letter using a keyboard or letter display on an SGD.
Question 2: A child uses a switch to scan through symbols on a display. This access method is best classified as:
- Direct selection
- Partner-assisted scanning
- Automatic scanning (Correct answer)
- Encoding
Correct answer: Automatic scanning
Automatic scanning means the device moves through items automatically and the user activates a switch to select when the target is highlighted.
Question 3: Which symbol system uses black-and-white line drawings and is widely used in school-based AAC?
- Blissymbolics
- Picture Communication Symbols (PCS) (Correct answer)
- Rebus symbols
- Sigsymbols
Correct answer: Picture Communication Symbols (PCS)
Picture Communication Symbols (PCS) are standardized black-and-white and color line drawings commonly used in school-based AAC programs.
Question 4: An SLP recommends adding a 'quick-fire' phrase page to a client's AAC device. What is the PRIMARY purpose of this feature?
- Increasing vocabulary depth
- Reducing cognitive load for frequent phrases (Correct answer)
- Teaching phonological awareness
- Improving motor planning
Correct answer: Reducing cognitive load for frequent phrases
Quick-fire or pre-stored phrase pages allow users to produce common messages with a single activation, reducing cognitive and motor demands.
Question 5: The 'aided language stimulation' (ALS) strategy requires the communication partner to:
- Speak more slowly and loudly
- Point to symbols on the AAC system while speaking (Correct answer)
- Withhold spoken language until the device is used
- Use only unaided AAC strategies
Correct answer: Point to symbols on the AAC system while speaking
In aided language stimulation, the facilitator models language by pointing to symbols on the AAC device during natural conversation while also speaking.
Question 6: Which access method would be MOST appropriate for a client with severe dysarthria and limited hand function who can reliably move their eyes?
- Head pointer direct selection
- Eye-gaze technology (Correct answer)
- Row-column scanning with a foot switch
- Voice output with partner assistance
Correct answer: Eye-gaze technology
Eye-gaze technology translates intentional eye movements to symbol selections, making it ideal for users with good ocular control but limited limb function.
Question 7: When conducting a feature matching assessment for AAC, the SLP compares:
- The client's insurance coverage to device cost
- Client needs and abilities to device characteristics (Correct answer)
- Peer communication skills to client skills
- Device brand reputation to clinical preference
Correct answer: Client needs and abilities to device characteristics
Feature matching systematically compares a client's motor, cognitive, sensory, and linguistic profile to the features of candidate AAC devices or systems.
SLP Augmentative and Alternative Communication 2
Which feature of a speech-generating device (SGD) allows the user to build words letter by letter?