National Evaluation Series (NES) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Test

If a student struggles to comprehend spoken language, what special service might they qualify for?

1. Speech impairment

2. Language impairment

3. Emotional disability

4. Cognitive disability

The correct answer is: Language impairment

When a student struggles to comprehend spoken language, they are likely experiencing challenges related to their ability to process and understand language as it is spoken. A language impairment specifically encompasses difficulties related to understanding and using language, which includes problems with vocabulary, grammar, and the ability to follow verbal instructions. Language impairment can manifest in various ways, such as limited vocabulary, difficulty in forming sentences, or challenges in understanding conversations. This can significantly impact the student's overall communication abilities and academic performance, particularly in settings that rely heavily on verbal communication. In contrast, other options like speech impairment typically refer to issues with the production of speech sounds, emotional disability pertains to mental health challenges that affect educational performance, and cognitive disability involves broader issues with intellectual functioning and reasoning skills. Thus, the most appropriate service for a student with comprehension difficulties related to spoken language would be the support provided for language impairment.