A sense of rhythm is a universal human trait.
All cultures have music, chants, drumming, poetry, and other rhythmic art forms.
Languages as well have rhythmic foundations. This rhythm may be difficult for ESL students from language backgrounds in which every syllable carries a rhythmic beat. A contrast is conveyed by the intonation, although the words remain the same. Intonation rules can be learned by ESL students, just as grammar rules can. They can lead to more comprehensible speech as well as better understanding of others' speech.