Syllable Structure Changes

Question 1

Weak Syllable Deletion (WSD)

Answer 1

An unstressed (weak) syllable is deleted. Up to 3.5 for three-syllable words and up to 4-4.5 for longer words

Question 2

Final Consonant Deletion (FCD)

Answer 2

Word-final consonants are deleted. Most words have final consonants by age 3, though they may not be correct

Question 3

Reduplication (R)

Answer 3

An entire syllable (or part of a syllable) is repeated. (An “early” process used extensively by some children; used rarely by others.)

Question 4

Cluster Reduction (CR)

Answer 4

A sequence of two or more consonants is simplified, usually by deletion of the more difficult or “marked” element. Up to 3 in normal development; common in severe disorders

Question 5

/s/ - Cluster Reduction

Answer 5

Usually the /s/ is deleted, especially in initial clusters

Question 6

Nasal Cluster Reduction

Answer 6

Either element may be deleted; this sometimes depends on the voicing of the obstruent

Question 7

Liquid Cluster Reduction

Answer 7

The liquid is usually deleted. (An early stage in cluster reduction acquisition.)

Question 8

Epenthesis (E)

Answer 8

A segment is inserted, usually between two elements of a cluster

Question 9

Coalescence (CO)

Answer 9

Features from two adjacent segments or syllables combine (Segment or Syllable Coalescence)

Question 10

Metathesis (M)

Answer 10

Two sounds are reversed; this is usually not consistent