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Speech vs Language: What’s The Difference?

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Summary

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Speech is how we talk, using our voice and mouth. Language is a way to share ideas and feelings. It can be spoken, written, or signed. Some people need help with speech or language, and that’s okay.

Table of Contents

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Frequently Asked Question

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Can a child have problems with speech but not language, or vice versa?

Yes, a child can have difficulties with either speech or language, or both, depending on their unique needs.

How do speech therapists help with speech and language issues?

Speech therapists assess and treat speech and language difficulties, using tailored strategies to help children improve their communication skills.

Can speech and language difficulties affect learning and social skills?

Yes, speech and language challenges can impact a child’s learning and social skills, making it essential to address these issues with appropriate support.

Can a person with a speech or language disorder still have meaningful communication?

Absolutely, individuals with speech or language disorders can develop alternative means of communication, such as using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, sign language, or writing, to effectively convey their thoughts and interact with others.

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Scientific Definition

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Speech and language are related but different skills we use to communicate. Speech is how we say sounds and words, using our voice, lips, tongue, and jaw. It’s the physical act of talking. Language is a system we use to share ideas, feelings, and information. It has two parts: understanding (receptive language) and sharing (expressive language). We can use spoken, written, or signs to share a language. People with special needs might have speech, language, or both trouble. Speech therapists help them improve these skills. When we know the difference between speech and language, we can better support our children and students.

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Real World Example of Speech VS Language

Meet Charlie, a friendly and curious kid who’s about to show us the difference between speech and language through a simple story:

  • Charlie’s Difficulty Talking: Charlie liked making friends, but sometimes, when he tried to say things, his words didn’t come out clearly. This was his speech.
  • Charlie’s Special Friend: One day, he met a kind dog named Max. Even though Charlie’s words were a bit tricky to understand, Max could tell that Charlie wanted to play. This was Max understanding Charlie’s language.
  • Practicing Sounds: Charlie decided to practice his speech with his mom. They practiced making different sounds and words together to help him talk more clearly.
  • Clear Communication: As Charlie got better at speaking, he went back to see Max and said, “Let’s play!” Max understood him perfectly and they had a great time playing fetch. This was how speech and language came together.
  • A Happy Ending: Charlie realized that speech was the way he made sounds, and language was how he connected with friends. He was excited to make more friends and share fun adventures.

Charlie’s story reminds us that speech and language are like pieces of a puzzle, and when you put them together, you can have clear and wonderful conversations with friends like Max.

How Does Speech VS Language Work?

Understanding how speech and language function is essential for helping children develop effective communication skills. Here’s a concise breakdown:

  • Speech:
    • Involves the physical act of producing sounds and words using the voice and mouth.
    • Examples: Pronouncing words, articulating sounds, and using vocal expressions.
  • Language:
    • Encompasses a broader system of symbols, rules, and grammar that enables communication.
    • Examples: Understanding and using words, sentences, and non-verbal cues like gestures and facial expressions.
  • Speech and Language Together:
    • Effective communication combines clear speech with the use of language to convey thoughts and feelings.
    • Examples: Having a conversation, telling a story, and expressing emotions.

Understanding this distinction helps parents support their children in developing both speech clarity and language comprehension, ensuring they can communicate effectively with the world. Incorporating these concepts into daily interactions can foster confident communicators and pave the way for meaningful connections.

 

This post was originally published on April 1, 2023. It was updated on Jan. 4, 2024.

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