*4.2.2 Atypical*

Students with disabilities often experience language delays [20]. Depending on the severity, this can affect their ability to learn to read and write, as well as their effectiveness in communicating with others using speech and text. Disabilities involving receptive and expressive language skills can cause significant gaps in

vocabulary acquisition. This causes a domino effect in their ability to understand new concepts or to discuss information and ideas in depth. Phonological awareness delays and deficiencies can affect a child's ability to manipulate isolated sounds in words, a key element of learning to read [21].
