CALT Professional Communication and Diagnostic Report Writing

Question 1

When writing a diagnostic report for a student with dyslexia, which approach best serves the needs of the parents?

Accepted Answer

Present assessment results in plain language with clear explanations of what scores mean for the student

Answer

Use precise psychometric terminology throughout to demonstrate clinical accuracy

Answer

Limit the report to numerical scores and percentile ranks without interpretive narrative

Answer

Focus primarily on the student's weaknesses to justify the need for services

Question 2

A CALT is presenting evaluation results at a meeting attended by the student's teacher, parents, and the school principal. What is the most effective communication approach?

Accepted Answer

Tailor the language and level of detail to the background and role of each audience

Answer

Use the same technical terminology with all attendees to ensure consistency

Answer

Provide only the written report without verbal commentary to avoid misinterpretation

Answer

Direct all explanations to the principal as the decision-maker in the room

Question 3

A student earns a standard score of 78 on a standardized reading assessment. How should a CALT most accurately describe this score to parents?

Accepted Answer

"This score falls in the below-average range, at approximately the 7th percentile, meaning your child scored higher than about 7% of same-age peers."

Answer

"This is a failing score that indicates your child cannot read at all."

Answer

"This is a borderline score — with a little extra help, your child should catch up on their own."

Answer

"This score is within the average range and is not a significant concern at this time."

Question 4

Which method of documenting student progress during academic language therapy is most consistent with evidence-based professional practice?

Accepted Answer

Systematic, session-by-session data tracking mastery of specific targeted skills

Answer

Anecdotal notes written once per semester summarizing overall impressions

Answer

Parent questionnaires completed at the beginning and end of the intervention cycle

Answer

Teacher observations submitted quarterly to the CALT

Question 5

During a consultation with a classroom teacher, a CALT should AVOID which of the following actions?

Accepted Answer

Assigning a new diagnosis for a co-occurring condition not documented in the formal evaluation

Answer

Suggesting evidence-based classroom accommodations for the student

Answer

Explaining how the student's dyslexia profile affects classroom performance

Answer

Recommending referral to a speech-language pathologist for observed language concerns

Question 6

A CALT receives a referral for a student who shows signs of a processing disorder that may fall outside the CALT's scope of practice. What is the most ethical course of action?

Accepted Answer

Evaluate within their scope of practice and refer to appropriate specialists for areas outside it

Answer

Complete the full evaluation and provide comprehensive recommendations for all areas observed

Answer

Decline the referral without explanation to avoid overstepping professional boundaries

Answer

Consult only with the parents and avoid involving other school professionals