Laura Thorburn, M.S., CCC-SLP
If you’re an English language learner who wants to improve your English skills, you may not be sure where to turn. Should you work with an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher? Or should you see a speech-language pathologist, also known as a speech therapist?
Communication takes many forms. Depending on your personal goals, you may want to focus on different areas of communication. Both ESL teachers and speech therapists can help you speak and understand English more easily. However, they do different things to improve your communication skills.
Read on to learn the difference between ESL classes and speech therapy and how to choose the right one for you. Keep in mind, however, that many people rely on both an ESL teacher and a speech therapist to become fluent in English.
The differences between ESL and speech therapy
When you’re learning English, when do you need ESL classes, and when can speech therapy be helpful? Let’s start with looking at the differences between ESL and speech therapy.
When do you need ESL classes?
An ESL teacher helps people learn English when it’s not their native language. The focus of an ESL teacher is to help you improve your skills in reading, writing, listening to, and speaking English.
ESL teachers use different methods to help you learn vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure, and everyday expressions that make it easier to speak English. An ESL teacher introduces you to the words and grammar rules that are used in English at a level that fits your goals. They may use textbooks for reading, word lists to increase your vocabulary, writing exercises, and role-playing so you can practice listening to and speaking the English language.
An ESL teacher does not provide treatment for any kind of language impairment or learning disability that may result in language difficulties.
When do you need speech therapy for help with speaking English?
A speech therapist focuses on the way a person makes speech sounds and uses their voice. Here’s how speech therapy can help multilingual people who are learning English:
Speech clarity: When a person is learning a new language, that language may include sounds that aren’t present in the person’s native language. It may be difficult to make the precise lip and tongue movements needed for these sounds because the person hasn't had to use them before.
In some cases, a person’s accent can affect the clarity of their speech. They may have trouble being understood by others, and their accent may disrupt the natural flow of conversation.
A speech therapist can teach you how to increase the strength, range of motion, and precision of your mouth movements. They can help you change your accent. For example, they’ll help you better understand the mechanics of your speech and how to adjust your pronunciation. They may instruct you on tongue placement or muscle memory that could be affecting your speech sounds. This will make your speech clearer, so others can understand you more easily. This aspect of speech therapy is called accent modification.
Rhythm and vocal tone: A speech therapist can also teach you the patterns of English rhythm and tone to use when speaking. You’ll learn how to use your voice so it sounds natural and clear, at a comfortable volume.
Speaking with confidence: Many times, people who are learning a new language feel nervous or hesitant when speaking. Often, people with accents feel their listeners are more focused on the accent themselves versus what they’re trying to say. This can be a frustrating experience and affect a person's personal and professional life. A speech therapist can help you become more comfortable and confident when speaking in English.
Nonverbal communication: Finally, speech therapists also work on nonverbal communication skills like facial expressions, body language, and eye contact. These are important, as they convey a large amount of information during a conversation.
How ESL and speech therapy work together
Let’s look at how these professions can work together for non-native speakers who want to focus on both aspects of communication. While the ESL teacher provides a foundation in understanding and using the English language, the speech therapist helps to refine how you sound when speaking. Together, these two professionals cover all parts of communication, from grammar and vocabulary to pronunciation and voice quality.
The ESL teacher provides a foundation in understanding and using English. The speech therapist helps refine how you sound when speaking.
Here’s an example. An ESL teacher may teach the vocabulary word “beautiful,” so the person understands its meaning and can use it appropriately. The speech therapist can help the person say the word with typical English pronunciation, syllabic stress, and adequate blending with other words in the sentence.
Speech therapy can help you master speaking English
When you can speak English clearly and confidently, it opens many doors. Whether for school, work, or social situations, strong communication skills allow you to share ideas and connect with other people.
With practice and support from both an ESL teacher and a speech therapist, you can improve your communication skills and feel more comfortable expressing yourself in English. By learning the language and perfecting the way you sound, you can enjoy all the benefits that come with speaking English well.
Expressable speech therapists provide accent modification therapy, helping multilingual people understand how their native language may affect their communication in English. Our goal is to empower you to communicate as clearly and confidently as possible. Schedule a free consultation call with one of our specialists to learn how we can help you become fully fluent in English.
