The soft palate is the back part of the roof of the mouth, made of muscle and tissue. It plays a crucial role in speech and swallowing by helping to close off the nasal passages during these activities. This prevents food and liquids from entering the nasal cavity. When the soft palate moves, it helps produce certain sounds in speech, such as those in the English language. It also aids in the proper functioning of the uvula, a small, fleshy extension at the back of the throat, which helps with swallowing and preventing food from entering the airway.