Practice Test Geeks(SLPA) Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Practice Test
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Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Hearing Flashcards

7 cards from real SLPA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. What is the primary function of the epiglottis during the swallow?

    Answer: To fold over the laryngeal inlet and protect the airway from aspiration

    The epiglottis deflects downward over the laryngeal inlet during swallowing, acting as a protective flap that diverts food and liquid away from the airway.

  2. The true vocal folds are located at which anatomical level of the larynx?

    Answer: Glottis

    The true vocal folds and the space between them constitute the glottis; this is the level at which phonation occurs.

  3. Subglottal pressure is best defined as the air pressure located where in the vocal tract?

    Answer: Below the vocal folds in the trachea and lungs

    Subglottal pressure is the air pressure that builds below the vocal folds (in the trachea and lungs) and drives phonation when it exceeds the resistance of the adducted vocal folds.

  4. The pinna (auricle) is part of which section of the peripheral auditory system?

    Answer: Outer ear

    The pinna is the visible cartilaginous structure of the outer ear that collects and funnels sound waves into the external auditory meatus (ear canal).

  5. Which cavities of the vocal tract serve as the primary resonators that shape voice quality and distinguish vowel sounds?

    Answer: Pharyngeal, oral, and nasal cavities

    The pharyngeal, oral, and nasal cavities act as resonators that selectively amplify specific frequencies, giving voice its unique timbre and enabling vowel differentiation.

  6. Phonation is best defined as which process?

    Answer: The vibration of the vocal folds driven by subglottal air pressure to produce voice

    Phonation is the laryngeal process by which exhaled air causes the adducted vocal folds to vibrate at a fundamental frequency, producing the sound source for voice.

  7. Wernicke's area, critical for language comprehension, is located in which lobe of the brain?

    Answer: Temporal lobe

    Wernicke's area is located in the posterior superior temporal gyrus of the left temporal lobe and is essential for understanding spoken and written language.