Speech-Language Pathology National (SLP-N) Practice Test 2025 – The Complete All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Final consonant deletion is a phonological process where a child omits the final consonant sound in a word, often resulting in a simplification of the sound structure. In the given examples, the one that best illustrates this concept is where "bus" loses its final sound to become "buh."

In this case, the final consonant "s" is dropped, which aligns perfectly with the definition of final consonant deletion. This phonological process is common in early language development and can be a natural part of children's speech patterns as they learn to articulate and master complex sounds.

The other examples do not demonstrate final consonant deletion. For instance, "cu" for "cup" omits the initial consonant instead, while "tar" for "car" involves a substitution of the initial consonant rather than deletion of the final one. Similarly, "wabbit" for "rabbit" alters the initial consonant sound but retains the final consonant.

Understanding these distinctions helps in recognizing the types of speech patterns that children may exhibit and the developmental aspects of their language acquisition.