Speech Functions

Abstract

The ability to speak depends upon the coordination of a series of motor, sensory and perceptual functions in which large areas of the cortex participate. The first stage in the development of speech is the association of sounds with tactile and visual sensations. These associations, stored in the memory, are later utilised in verbalising the words thus learned. To articulate requires coordinated movement of the muscles of the vocal cords, throat, tongue and lips. When a child learns to read, the spoken words are combined with visual symbols; through this association the child also learns to write. Hence, the ability to express ideas in spoken or written words combines a number of closely related functions involving extensive cortical areas.