Visualising complex speech sounds: a study of rhotic consonants – evidence from ultrasound of the tongue

Speech sounds from the ‘r’ consonant family (rhotics) are amongst the most difficult to master. They are acquired late in children learning their first language, and are challenging for those with speech disorders and for second language learners. This is because such sounds are highly complex, requiring finely tuned coordination of speech articulators. Details of this complexity remain poorly understood, posing significant problems for speech error remediation and effective language learning pedagogy. This project will use state-of-the-art ultrasound imaging to visualise and detail the articulation of rhotics, allowing us to lay essential foundations for future advancements in remediation and instruction.