Description

Ages: 13 and up

Grades: 8th and up

Author: Rachele Ellsworth

Determining Meaning from Social Language: Teens

Master the nuances of social communication!

Take your social-cognitive therapy to the next level with Speech Corner Photo Cards for Determining Meaning from Social Language. This specialized resource is designed to bridge the gap between literal interpretation and true social understanding. Specifically geared for teenagers, these cards provide the high-level practice needed to navigate the complex world of indirect communication, humor, and social subtext.

Social inference made simple and relatable!

For many teens, the hardest part of a conversation isn’t what is said, but what is implied. Each card features a realistic, age-appropriate photo paired with a social scenario that challenges students to look beyond the literal words and deduce the speaker’s true intent.

Covers a wide range of social language targets:

• Indirect Requests: Understanding when a statement like “It’s getting a bit loud in here” actually means “Please be quiet.”

• Sarcasm: Recognizing tone and context clues to identify when someone means the opposite of what they are saying.

• Common Figurative Language: Deciphering idioms and metaphors used in everyday teen conversations.

• Social Context Clues: Using environment and body language to infer the “hidden” meaning in a social interaction.

Targets key social-communication goals:

• Inferencing Skills: Moving past literal meanings to understand implied messages.

• Perspective Taking: Considering the speaker’s thoughts, feelings, and intentions.

• Social Problem Solving: Identifying the appropriate reaction to a subtle or indirect social cue.

• Generalization: Building skills that translate directly to the lunchroom, classroom, and social media.

Perfect for:

• Speech-Language Pathologists: A targeted tool for students with ASD, social communication disorders, or ADHD.

• Social Skills Groups: Excellent for sparking deep discussions and “what would you do?” role-playing.

• Middle & High School Caseloads: Features age-neutral and relatable photography that respects the maturity of teen clients.

• Quick, Grab-and-Go Therapy: Zero prep required—simply pull a card and start a conversation.

Therapy-approved benefits:

• Realistic Scenarios: Scenarios are tailored specifically to the social pressures and interactions unique to teenage life.

• Critical Thinking: Encourages students to pause, process, and analyze social data before responding.

• Increased Engagement: High-quality photo cues provide a visual anchor for students who struggle with abstract verbal scenarios.

• Portable & Durable: A compact deck of 50 cards that fits easily in a therapy bag for “on-the-go” social skills coaching.

How to Use:

1. Observe: Look at the photo and describe the body language, facial expressions, and setting.

2. Analyze: Read the scenario provided. Ask the student: “Is the speaker being literal, or is there a hidden meaning?”

3. Deduce: Help the student identify the “indirect” message (e.g., identifying sarcasm or an unstated request).

4. Discuss: Brainstorm the best way to respond to that specific situation to ensure a successful social outcome.

Includes:

• 50 Large Photo Cards featuring realistic social situations.

• Targeted Prompts on the back of each card to guide the therapy session.