Summary
The paper considers some aspects of the linguistic assessment of the alleged speech and language delayed/deviant bilingual child in the speech therapy clinic. The suggested procedures remain intentionally within the bounds of what might be achieved by therapists utilising existing materials and skills, but emphasises some factors in assessment which it is believed have been hitherto neglected. A more detailed analysis of the bilingual chil's sociolinguistic background and the nature of bilingualism is called for, and features to be noted in this analysis are outlined. The use and interpretation of formal tests is dealt with, and how these relate to notions of dominance, non dominance, mixed codes etc. Finally the use of contrastive analysis, error analysis and awareness of interference in connection with the assessment of the bilingua's speech and language is explained and evaluated. Some aspects of counselling and the place of the bilingual in the speech clinic are mentioned. Works dealing in greater depth with topics covered are quoted throughout for those wishing to develop the themes further.