A Preliminary Study of Syntax in the Written Expression of Learning Disabled Children

Abstract

Syntax in the written expression of five normal and five learning disabled fourth graders was assessed. Samples of written language were scored using the method prescribed for obtaining a syntax quotient in the Picture Story Language Test (Myklebust 1965). The syntax of the LD group was found to be significantly deficient when compared to that of the normal group. Previous research has documented the syntactical deficiencies in the oral language of LD children. The findings of this report suggest that syntax problems also are likely to be found in the written language of these children.