SLP 285 Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Language

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Focuses on the anatomy and physiology specific to speech as a medium of communication, and to the underlying modalities of language. Reviews the underlying body systems involved in speech and language productions such as respiratory, skeletal and muscular systems. Presents the anatomical structures and the physiology fundamentals to various speech disorders, along with the role of anatomy and physiology in speech and language rehabilitation. Provides differentiation among the anatomy and physiology of infants, children, adolescents, and adults.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe the basic neural structures and their actions in producing language and speech output.
Name and describe the actions of the tongue muscles essential to tongue movement for speech and swallowing.
Differentiate between coordination, dys-coordination, strength, speed, and range of motion in facial and tongue movements and control in communication.
Differentiate and explain motor and sensory functioning in relation to various anatomical structures, and underlying nervous system functioning.
Name and describe the actions of the basic internal and external muscles of the larynx in relation to speech and voice production.
Compare and contrast speech, voice, and language in terms of anatomical structures, and physiological functions.
Integrate specific observations of the respiratory and laryngeal mechanisms into a comparison of speech and voice, and associated disorders.
Identify and describe the symptoms and visual evidence and effects of anatomical-based (congenital) disorders.
Differentiate between genetic and chromosomal disorders affecting communication.

Content Outline

Body Systems, Directional Planes of the Body, Basic Anatomy
Respiratory and Skeletal Systems as they relate to speech, language and swallowing.
Hearing and Balance Systems
Articulation and Resonation
Function of Voice and related diagnostics
Neuroanatomy, Neurology, Cranial Nerves
Swallowing anatomy, Physiology as it relates to clinical practice
Genetic, chromosomal, anatomical ( congenital) disorders.