Tongue positions for vowels and consonants

Sound Variation and Comprehension A phoneme is the smallest element of sound in a language. Each vowel or consonants can be produced in several varying forms. These forms are called allophones of the phoneme. A study of the phonemic system of a language of the target language will enable the teacher to emphasize those phonetic differences.

Generative Phonology GP concentrates on process rules. Native speakers know how these rules apply in their language and they produce the required variants. But new learners have to learn these rules consciously and apply them in appropriate contexts. Language teachers frequently neglect syllabification, stress and intonation.

Introducing the Phonology of the New Language Preadolescent Students Mimicry or repetitive activities. Sound patterns may actively used in context over and over or memorized. Adolescent and Adults Can be given direct instructions in the introductory lessons. Theoretical instruction should be accompanied by authentic materials. Lots of remedial practices should be instituted.

Techniques Dictation this can be used to verify whether students have learned to make certain discrimination among sounds. Rhymes, Poems, and Songs Younger children can be given nursery and counting rhymes. Rhymes or poems learned by heart can be repeated in chorus or by individuals many times. Some sounds are easily produced by a foreigner on a musical scale. Tape Practice Tape can be used as a model for imitation. They can take language wherever they go. Record their own sounds and compare them with those of native speakers.

Problems of Teaching Sounds Age Differences Children love making strange sounds and mimicking. Teenagers hate to make fool of themselves and will be reluctant to participate in oral work. Language labs or voice recorders can provide the students to work in isolation, and feel free. Attitudes If the learners regard the speakers of the target language in low esteem, they will not want to identify themselves with them.