The Mechanics of Speech

Speech Communication 1

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​SPEECH ORGANS

​Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Identify the organs of speech.

2. Understand the six distinct processes in producing speech sounds.

3. Comprehend the role of voice, posture, and breathing in effective speech production.

4. Apply proper voice, posture, and breathing techniques in speech exercises.

​Icebreaker

Introduce yourselves using a tongue twister of your choice. Below are examples of a few tongue twisters:
"

• Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.

• How can a clam cram in a clean cream can?

• She sells seashells by the seashore."

  "Hi, my name is ________, and here is my tongue twister: _________."

​ACTIVITY

• Organs of Speech

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JF8rlKuSoFM&authuser=0

Multiple Choice

Voice is the sound produced by humans and other vertebrates. The lungs and the pharynx are used to produce the voice or vocalization.

• The first statement is true and the second statement is false.

• The first statement is false and the second statement is true.

• Both statements are true.

• Both statements are false.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is the primary organ of speech production?

• pharynx

• trachea

• larynx

• glottis

Multiple Choice

What happens to the diaphragm during the breathing stage?

• It contracts causing the rib cage to open and produce the sound.

• It expands and contracts horizontally to allow the lungs be filled with air.

• It closes to contract and expands, and then lets the air flow to the lungs.

• It contracts and expands vertically in the rib cage to allow the lungs fill with air.

​ACTIVITY

• Organs of Speech

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-m-gudHhLxc

Multiple Choice

In speech, inhalation takes a short period while exhalation covers a long period to produce audible speech.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

The pharynx modifies the air to produce an acoustic signal

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

The voice production is the most important effect of the vocal folds' action.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

Which of the following stages involves the way the speech sounds are differentiated, modifies the airstream to produce the sounds of speech?

• Articulation

• Phonation

• Resonation

• Initiation

Voice, Posture, Breathing

The voice is the primary vehicle for verbal communication. It is produced by the vibration of the vocal cords, which are located in the larynx, or voice box. The quality, pitch, volume, and tone of your voice can significantly impact how your message is received.

Breathing

Breathing is fundamental to producing sound. Effective speech relies on controlled breathing to provide the necessary airflow for vocalization.
Here’s how proper breathing contributes to effective speech:

1. Volume control: Diaphragmatic breathing allows for better control over the volume of your voice, enabling you to project more effectively.

2. Steady airflow: Consistent and controlled breathing ensures a steady stream of air, which is crucial for maintaining a smooth and even speech pattern.

3. Reduced anxiety: Deep, controlled breathing can help calm nerves, making it easier to speak clearly and confidently.

Voice, Posture, Breathing

Posture refers to the alignment and positioning of the body. Good posture is essential for effective speech because it allows for optimal functioning of the respiratory system and supports the proper alignment of the vocal apparatus.

Posture

Standing or sitting up straight with your shoulders back and your head level can help:

1. Open the airway: Proper posture keeps the throat and windpipe unobstructed, allowing for the free flow of air.

2. Enhance resonance: Good posture helps the chest cavity act as a resonating chamber, enriching the quality of the voice.

3. Reduce strain: Proper alignment reduces tension in the neck, shoulders, and back, which can otherwise strain the vocal cords.

Voice Exercises

Voice Exercises- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIJ9uWc5Nu0
Proper Posture- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgGdKAnK5vY
Breathing Exercises https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyIoUMwD7Xw

APPLICATION

1. Form a group with 4 members and read the poem entitled "How Do I Love Thee" by Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

2. Observe the use of voice, posture and breathing properly.

3. Your performance will be evaluated using the following rubric:

   Clarity -5 pts

   Use of Speech Organs properly--5pts

   Voice modulation -5pts

   Posture--5pts

   Breathing-5pts.

4. Other groups will be asked to give their feedback and suggestions for improvement.

Application

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of being and ideal grace.
I love thee to the level of every day’s
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for right.
I love thee purely, as they turn from praise.

I love thee purely, as they turn from praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood’s faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints. I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life; and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.

REFLECTION

Give your reflection about the lessons discussed for today. You may use the prompt below:

Two (2) things I learned.

One (1) questionI still have in mind.

Open Ended

REFLECTION:

Write your reflection about the lessons discussed today. You may use the prompt below: Two (2) things I learned and One (1) question I still have in mind.