Interactions between bilingual effects and language impairment: Exploring grammatical markers in Spanish-speaking bilingual children

• DOI: 10.1017/s0142716415000521
• Publication Date: 2015-11-25T01:32:20Z
• Authors: ANNY P. CASTILLA-...; MARÍA ADELAIDA RE...; ANA TERESA PÉREZ-...; SHELLEY GRAY; PAUL HOLMES; DANIEL GAIL; ZIQIANG CHEN
• Keywords: Language proficiency; Language impairment; Specific Language Impairment

ABSTRACT This study examines the interaction between language impairment and different levels of bilingual proficiency. Specifically, we explore potential articles direct object pronouns as clinical markers primary (PLI) in Spanish-speaking children. The compared children with PLI typically developing (TD) matched on age, English proficiency, mother's education level. Two types bilinguals were targeted: Spanish-dominant intermediate proficiency (asymmetrical bilinguals), near-balanced bilinguals. We measured children's accuracy use an elicited task. Results from this preliminary suggest affects patterns articles. Across groups, find marked differences TD PLI, both However, magnitude difference diminishes balanced Articles appear more stable these and, therefore, seem to have a greater discriminate those PLI. Future studies using discriminant analyses are needed assess impact findings.