What skill is essential for properly communicating spoken language?

The essential skill for properly communicating spoken language is oral language skills. These skills encompass the ability to express thoughts, ideas, and feelings verbally, as well as to understand others when they speak. This includes using the correct vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, as well as the ability to listen actively and respond appropriately in conversations. Oral language skills are foundational for effective communication and play a critical role in language development, beginning in early childhood.

Written language skills, while important, refer specifically to the ability to convey messages in writing rather than speaking. Phonological skills involve the recognition and manipulation of sounds within spoken language but do not cover the full spectrum of communication. Reading comprehension, on the other hand, pertains to understanding written text and is a separate skill from spoken communication.