Two second syllable timing is used as a transitional first stage designed to assist in the integration of the speech production techniques to follow. The PWS will progressively re-establish a normal speech rate in parts Two and Three and in the Fluency Maintenance Program. The PWS is trained in the precision prolonged timing of syllables. An integrated tape recorder and stop watch tool is used for these exercises. Feedback on timing and fluency are provided in through interactive dialogue.
Special messages promote self-evaluation skills.
Later units distinguish between prolongable and non-prolongable sounds and train the PWS in the pronunciation of syllables with combinations of these kinds of sounds. Progressively, the PWS goes on to practice this technique with full phrases, sentences, passages and conversational dialogues. Animations, pictures, vocal examples and short texts accompany the lessons and help to teach the PWS how to differentiate between, and produce, voiced sounds, non-voiced sounds, fricatives, plosives, etc. Progressive training in the use of the integrated tape recorder and stopwatch tools is provided at the beginning of the lesson. The PWS is trained in abdominal breathing and in the coordination of this breathing technique with speech.