Derbyshire Language Scheme

Who is it for?

The Derbyshire Language Scheme (DLS) is one of the most widely used intervention approaches in the UK. It is split into three sections; Early Vocabulary, Simple Sentences and Grammar and Complex Sentences.

‘Simple Sentences’ are the core of the Scheme, and are the most heavily used section. It aims to help children develop understanding and use of early sentences through carefully designed play activities. It is intended for children who are slow to develop language from play and interaction with family, and friends. It follows a structured language teaching approach, looking at understanding and use of sentences with 2, 3 and 4 key words.

Research has demonstrated that the DLS is effective in improving the understanding of sentences in children.

How does the 'Simple Sentence Section' work?

Carefully designed play activities are used to help children increase their understanding and use of sentences with 2, 3 and 4 key words. For example, ‘Give the biscuit to the elephant’ focuses on understanding of 2 key words, whereas ‘Give the big banana to monkey’ focuses on the understanding of 3 key words.

Therapy Sessions

For the LIVELY project, we have developed an adapted version of the Derbyshire Language Scheme to ensure it is delivered consistently. The intervention will be delivered by a Speech and Language Therapist to small groups of children. The group sessions will take place twice a week for 8 weeks = 16 sessions in total. Each group will last up to 30 minutes.

For more information regarding the differences between the adapted and standard version of the DLS, please see The Adapted DLS.

Homework

The intervention asks parents to complete simple homework tasks with their children after each of the 16 sessions. The homework resources will be sent to parents along with clear instructions and a video demonstration. The homework activities are in the style of games to help motivate the children.

The homework packs ask the parents to give their children a range of instructions using the resources provided – the instructions are written on a sheet provided with the pack. This reinforces the sentences that were used in the group sessions.

Key Features

• The aim of DLS is to support children’s understanding and use of sentences
• DLS is delivered in group sessions (twice a week for 8 weeks = 16 sessions)
• Toys and games are used to motivate the children