SOLOM (Student Oral Language Observation Matrix)

1.Comprehension

Understands nearly everything at normal speech, although occasional repetition may be necessary.

Score: 4

2.      Fluency

Speech in conversation and classroom discussions is generally fluent, with occasional lapses while the student searches for the correct manner of expression.

Score: 4

3.      Vocabulary

Occasionally uses inappropriate terms and/or must rephrase ideas because of lexical inadequacies.

Score: 4

4.      Pronunciation

Pronunciation problems necessitate concentration on the part of the listener and occasionally lead to misunderstanding.

Score: 3

5.      Grammar

Makes frequent errors of grammar and word order, which occasionally obscure meaning.

Score: 3

Analysis:

 Luis’s biggest struggles seem to be in his grammar and pronunciation. Both the use of proper grammar and pronunciation impact his ability to communicate and read and write with fluency and comprehension. It is to Luis’s benefit that he is interested in political and social outlets, which will expose him to rich language use and proper pronunciation. Hopefully this will help grow his understanding of the English language and improve his ability to read and write with fluency.

It would be beneficial for Luis to read from a variety of texts in order to become familiar with grammar and proper use of words and phrases. It would also help and possibly challenge him to have peer writing or editing group activities so that he gets lots of practice with using the English language, both verbal and written language. Because Luis is a college student, I would recommend that he become involved in study groups or tutoring groups where he can get the support he needs to continue to improve his English skills. I would also recommend some creative writing classes that would keep him motivated to learn about written expression in the English language.