Phonological variations in Spanish-influenced EnglishKimberly RobertsonSouth Carolina State UniversityPhonological variations in Spanish-influenced EnglishIntroductionThe Hispanic population of the United States constitutes the largest ethnic or racial minority in the country. As of July 1, 2012, there were approximately 53 million Hispanics in the United States, representing 17% of the country's population. The projected Hispanic population in the United States for the year 2060 is 128.8 million, which according to this projection will constitute 31% of the country's population (Newsroom, 2013). These demographics present a high likelihood that a speech-language pathologist will provide treatment to individuals from Spanish-speaking cultures. In the field of speech therapy, it is important to consider the differences between Spanish and English speech acquisition in order to differentiate speech disorders from typical speech acquisition processes (Roseberry-McKibbin & Hegde , 2011). Phonology Spanish and English share an alphabet, with the Spanish audio system being more concise. Many differences appear when comparing the phonologies of the two languages. These differences will influence the speech of Spanish speakers learning English. Speakers can transfer their knowledge from Spanish to English. Understanding these differences is important for the speech-language pathologist to understand why some English sounds are more difficult for a Spanish speaker to produce than others (Gorman & Kester, 2001). Vowel Systems Spanish has five vowels: /a/, /e/, /i/, /o/ and /u/. Although these vowels are found in English, the English language contains a...... middle of paper...... edge of the tongue and the rules will only benefit the ability to diagnose and treat disorders of speech and language.ReferencesGorman, BK and Kester, ES (2001). Spanish-influenced English: typical phonological patterns in the English language learner. In the seminar offered by Bilingiustics at ASHA.Newsroom. (2013). Facts for Articles: Hispanic Heritage Month 2013: September 15. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb13-ff19.htmlRoseberry-McKibbin, C. & Hegde, MN (2011). Communication disorders in multicultural populations. An advanced speech therapy review: PRAXIS preparation and comprehensive exam (pp. 425-427). Austin, TX: PRO-ED, Inc. Typical speech development in Spanish versus English. (2007). In Seminar offered by Bilingiustics at ASHA.