Butler’s “Speech Sounds” takes us into a world where a mysterious pandemic has robbed humanity of its ability to communicate. In this fractured society, where language and connection have broken down, the story explores what it means to be human when the very tools that bind us together are gone. Butler uses this scenario to raise questions about identity, survival, and the power of connection, even in the face of chaos. Looking at how we adapt and find meaning when everything familiar has been stripped away, we'll explore deep themes of culture.

- Students will know the key themes and literary techniques used in "Speech Sounds," including symbolism, dystopian elements, and character development. - Students will be able to analyze the societal implications of communication breakdowns in the story and draw connections to contemporary issues, such as misinformation, social isolation, and the role of language in human interaction. - Students will understand the broader significance of Butler’s work in exploring human resilience, the fragility of civilization, and the ways in which language shapes identity and community.