What is the focus of the positions used in Cued Speech?

The focus of the positions used in Cued Speech is primarily on the mouth, chin, throat, and side. Cued Speech is a visual mode of communication that aids in the understanding of spoken language by using handshapes and placements alongside spoken words. The emphasis on the mouth and facial expressions is critical because they provide visual cues that represent the sounds of spoken language. This method allows deaf and hard of hearing individuals to discern phonetic sounds, enabling them to effectively match what they see with what they hear, thus enhancing their language comprehension and acquisition.

In Cued Speech, hand positions are placed near the mouth to indicate specific speech sounds, making it crucial for the cues to be in proximity to facial movement. This integration helps to form a clearer connection between audibility and visibility of speech, which is essential for effective communication.