Speech Therapy Data Collection: A Simple System (Cue Levels Explained)
Data collection doesn't need to be complicated. A simple, consistent system makes progress reports easy and helps you decide when to move a student up a level.
1. Tally every trial
Mark a plus or a check for each correct production and a minus or an X for each incorrect one. Aim for at least 10 trials per student per target, more if time allows.
2. Note the cue level
- Independent: no help.
- Minimal cues: a quick reminder or visual cue.
- Moderate cues: a model or a phonetic placement cue on many trials.
- Maximal cues: direct models or physical cues on most trials.
3. Turn it into a percentage
Correct divided by total, times 100. For example, 8 correct out of 10 trials is 80%.
4. Set a mastery criterion
A common criterion is 80% accuracy across 3 consecutive sessions at the same level and cue level. When a student meets it, move to the next level (word to phrase, phrase to sentence) or fade cues.
5. Make groups manageable
- Give each student their own row on your data sheet.
- Rotate turns quickly so everyone gets plenty of trials.
- Write the target next to each student's initials before you start.
Let PrepPal do this for you
Take data with one tap per trial. PrepPal graphs progress and writes the notes.
Questions SLPs ask
How many trials should I take per session?
At least 10 per target is a good minimum; 20 or more gives a more reliable percentage.
What is a typical mastery criterion in speech therapy?
80% accuracy across 3 consecutive sessions is common, but use what the IEP says.
Is there an app for speech therapy data collection?
PrepPal has a 'Take data' button on every page: tap correct or incorrect for each student, then it graphs progress and writes the session notes.