ETS Praxis Speech‑Language Pathology (5331) Form 2 Practice Test

The s/z ratio is a valuable tool for assessing speech and laryngeal function. Typically, a normal s/z ratio is considered to be around 1.0 to 1.2, indicating that a person can sustain both the voiceless /s/ and voiced /z/ sounds for a similar length of time. When the ratio exceeds this range, particularly values over 1.2, it may suggest potential laryngeal pathology.

A ratio of 1.5 indicates that there is a significant difference in the ability to sustain the /s/ sound compared to the /z/ sound, which could be due to issues such as vocal fold nodules, swelling, or other forms of laryngeal dysfunction. This discrepancy indicates a possible impairment in the laryngeal function, as the voice should not be significantly weaker when producing voiced sounds compared to voiceless sounds.

Thus, the s/z ratio value of 1.5 strongly suggests the presence of laryngeal pathology, making it the most indicative choice in assessing potential issues with the glottal mechanism.