PURPOSE: To propose a test to evaluate phonemic discrimination using minimum pairs, comprising all Brazilian Portuguese phonemes and using them in words which can be easily represented by pictures. The purpose of this test was to contribute to the diagnosis of phonologic alterations and to scientific research on this field. The proposed test was easy to apply and to be used in any workplace. METHODS: It was selected minimum pairs that opposed phonemes in relation to the binary value of each distinctive trait and to the possible combinations among the position traits ([labial], [coronal], [dorsal]) as well as by the oppositions of syllabic structure. Pictures representing the words of the pairs were created. RESULTS: The Phonemic Discrimination Picture Test (PDPT) was set up to evaluate the ability of auditory phonemic discrimination in children ranging from four to eight years old. The test consists of 40 presentations: 30 minimum pairs and 10 pairs of equal words. In the 30 minimum pairs presentations, the distinctive traits [+/- sonant], [+/- closing], [+/-continuous], [+/- voice], [coronal+/-ant], [labial x coronal], [dorsal] x [coronal] and [labial] x [dorsal] were opposed. The following syllabic structures were equally opposed: V x CV, CV x CCV, CV x CVC. CONCLUSION: The aims of the present study were successfully reached, given that PDPT accomplishes what it was proposed to do. Further, the test should be used in a pilot study in order to examine whether its words and pictures are adequate to the age range it is supposed to evaluate. Afterwards, it must be applied in children from several regions of the country to be properly standardized.
Speech discrimination tests; Speech perception; Language development; Child language; Language development disorders
