Mild (26-40dB): Oral communication is usually sufficient.
Characteristics and symptoms: Students with mild hearing loss can hear speech but at a reduced level. Students may continue to ask for repetition as background noises are amplified.
Moderate (41-55dB): Oral communication is usually sufficient.
Characteristics and symptoms: Students with moderate hearing loss may need to lip-read. May not seem to need aid especially if student has no problem with speech.
Severe (71-90dB): Oral communication is often accepted, however students may rely on hearing aids and BSL (British Sign Language) interpreters.
Characteristics and symptoms: Students may experience difficulty understanding speech and often find speech becoming dull, muffled or attenuated.
Profound (91dB and over): Often non oral, usually use sign language, however some students may still use oral communication.
Characteristics and symptoms: Usually use sign language to communicate, need BSL interpreters to support the students during class. Students often need interpretation or increased volume on television, radio, music and other audio advices.
