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What is Connected Speech?

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Summary

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Connected speech is the way people talk in everyday conversations. It’s when sounds flow together smoothly and quickly, without pauses between each word.

Table of Contents

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Frequently Asked Question

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How can I support my child's connected speech skills?

You can support your child’s connected speech skills by encouraging conversation, providing opportunities for social interaction, using visual aids or cues, and engaging in activities that promote rhythm, intonation, and fluent speech.

Is connected speech the same as fluency?

Connected speech is closely related to fluency, as it involves the smooth flow and organization of words and phrases. However, fluency encompasses other aspects like rate of speech and the absence of hesitations or disruptions.

Can connected speech skills be improved in adulthood?

Yes, connected speech skills can be improved in adulthood through speech therapy, targeted exercises, and practice. With consistent effort and support, individuals can enhance their ability to produce and understand connected speech, leading to more effective communication.

Does connected speech vary from one language to another?

Yes, the features and rules of connected speech vary significantly across languages, reflecting differences in rhythm, intonation, and pronunciation patterns. Understanding these differences is key to mastering the natural flow of a new language.

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Scientific Definition

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Connected speech refers to the continuous flow of sounds in spoken language, where words are linked together and pronounced differently than in isolation. The phonetic qualities of speech sounds are modified by coarticulation and elision, resulting in a fluent stream of connected discourse. Connected speech is a natural phenomenon in all spoken languages that facilitates efficient communication.

 

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Real World Example of Connected Speech

Meet Susie, an imaginative eight-year-old girl who loves to share her stories and thoughts. Let’s see how connected speech influences Susie’s communication journey:

Connected Speech Aspect Example
Storytelling Susie captivates her friend Emily with an enthusiastic retelling of her zoo adventure, connecting ideas with words like “first” and “then.”
Blending Sounds Susie smoothly blends sounds, saying “el’fant” and “ja’ff” for “elephant” and “giraffe.”
Smooth Flow Susie’s story flows effortlessly without pauses, keeping Emily engaged.
Stress and Intonation Susie emphasizes important details, like the roaring lions, using stress and intonation.
Dynamic Conversation Emily responds, encouraged by Susie’s connected speech.
Learning Games Susie easily follows instructions during “Simon Says” due to her teacher’s clear and connected speech.
Rhythmic Patterns Susie anticipates actions and confidently participates, thanks to her teacher’s fluent speech.
Inclusive Learning Connected speech creates an interactive environment, benefiting Susie and her classmates.

Connected speech empowers children like Susie to express themselves, engage in conversations, and participate fully. Parents and educators can foster this skill by providing support and inclusivity, helping children with special needs connect with the world and share their voices.

How Does Connected Speech Work?

Connected speech is used in all spoken language to make communication more efficient and natural. Here are some examples:

  • Linking: Connecting the final sound of one word to the initial sound of the next, such as “an apple” becoming “a napple.”
  • Elision: Omitting sounds or syllables, like saying “gonna” instead of “going to.”
  • Assimilation: Changing a sound to make it more similar to a neighboring sound, such as “handbag” becoming “hambag.”

By understanding and practicing these features, kids can improve their comprehension and use of connected speech.

 

This post was originally published on May 22, 2023. It was updated on July 19, 2023.

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