Language Concepts Screen with Objects and Pictures

This Language Concepts Screen is based on Ann Locke’s “Living Language” abstract vocabulary checklist (1995). This divides concepts into categories, and into simplest (Level I) up to more advanced (Level IV).

There are no age equivalents, but the advice is to establish understanding of concepts at Level I before moving up to the next level.

There are 207 concepts screened in 12 categories: 

Quality, Colour, Texture, Sound, Shape, Size, Movement, Quantity, Space, Time, Number, Personal Qualities.

Where possible the screen uses toy objects (154 concepts are screened using objects), the remaining 53 concepts are screened using pictures.

The toy objects are CE/UKCA approved, and are presented in an A3 craft box with dividers, and in 2 x A5 zipped bags. The pictures are in an A5 popper bag.

There is a photocopiable record form with clear instructions for presenting the objects/pictures, and space for comments and recommendations.

Everything fits into an A3 zipped bag, labelled with a brown parcel tag.

This screen is recommended for comprehensive, informal assessment of a child’s understanding of language concepts, mostly using manipulatives, and so can be used to plan treatment.