Phonological processing describes how quickly and accurately we can identify sounds. Resources in this section are free to use. This chapter in the book helps you to understand more about each of the different aspects of phonological processing and how they can affect the development of speech, language and communication; spelling accuracy and reading comprehension.

As phonological processing can be a 'hidden' difficulty, all children will benefit from being screened with the screening tests linked below.

Don't forget, it's important to check for hearing difficulties, too. Encourage parents-carers to see the GP about this alongside any screening you do.

This section relates to Chapter 4

NCIM Action Point 4.1:

Speech, Language and Communication Needs

Bedfordshire and Luton Speech and Language Therapy Service:

Early Years Language and Communication Toolkit

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Speech and Language Therapy Service:

Every Child a Talker Development Chart

Identification of Need Tools

The Bell Foundation:

Assessing multi-lingual learners (English as an Additional Language - EAL)

NCIM Action Point 4.2:

Phonological Awareness

Hertfordshire Specific Learning Difficulties team:

Phonological Awareness Assessment Pack

WESFORD (Wiltshire Early Screening for Dyslexia):

Screening can be found on pages 16-19

Toe by Toe:

Phonics test

NCIM Action Point 4.3:

Reading Comprehension

Headstart Primary:

Reading Comprehension Tests (Years 1 - 6)

Secondary aged tests:

There are no free secondary aged reading comprehension tests that I can find! Let's change this. Get in touch if you know of one.

NCIM Action Point 4.4:

Spelling Accuracy (Core)

Schonell Spelling Test:

Converts to a spelling age (a rough guide only)

NCIM Action Point 4.5:

Spelling for Intervention (Additional)

Hertfordshire Specific Learning Difficulties team:

Word Reading and Spelling Intervention Tests

Leeds for Learning:

Alpha to Omega Placement test and lesson plans for spelling intervention

Jump to:

Phonological Processing

Visual Processing

Handwriting & Sensory Integration

Executive Function

Social Emotional Mental Health

Physical Health