Which task is most sensitive to sequencing difficulty?

• A. "puh" AMRs
• B. Reading aloud
• C. "puh-tuh-kuh" SMRs
• D. Sustained /a/

Answer: (C)

Sequencing demands in speech place the greatest load on planning the rapid, coordinated movement of different articulators. In the rapid sequence task puh-tuh-kuh, you must quickly shift from one articulatory target to another in a single fluid motion, which requires precise programming of order and timing across multiple movements. That makes this task especially sensitive to sequencing difficulties, such as motor planning impairments.

In contrast, the puh repetition (AMR) uses the same gesture over and over, so it mainly measures speed and control of a single articulation rather than transitions between different targets. Reading aloud involves language processing plus articulation, but its sequencing demands aren’t as focal. Sustained /a/ tests breath support and phonation rather than coordinating a sequence of movements.

So, the rapid sequence of different consonant-vowel sounds is most sensitive to sequencing difficulty.