1. Macmillan Online Conference 8 th November 2012 Pronunciation: The Cinderella of ELT Two key problems… and two practical solutions Adrian Underhill Blog: adrianpronchart.wordpress.com

2. Q: Why is pronunciation so important? A: Because it infuses all language activity: Reading Writing Speaking Listening Thinking Remembering

3. In spite of this pronunciation is neglected Pronunciation is neglected in favour of grammar and vocabulary … a 2-dimensional matrix Pronunciation provides the third dimension… that gives language volume and body The ‘pronunciation slot’ is a disintegrated approach to pronunciation teaching Pronunciation is the Cinderella of language teaching…

4. Two (unnecessary) complications make pronunciation seem difficult to teach: Problem 1 Pronunciation is seen as mysterious, endless. It lacks a thinking tool or map Problem 2 Pronunciation is cognitively taught when it should be physical, muscular, like a dance

5. Possible resolution for first problem: 1. The chart It provides a map, a thinking tool, a complete gestalt This can be demonstrated in a few minutes

7. Possible resolution for second problem 2. Physicality Teach it physically, as if a subtle inner dance. Reconnect with the muscles that make the difference. This also makes it visible. This can also be demonstrated in a few minutes

8. The muscle buttons: 1. Tongue (moving forward and back) 2. Lips (spreading and bringing back, or rounding and pushing forward) 3. Jaw + tongue (moving them up and down) 4. Voice (turning it on or off, to make voiced or unvoiced sounds)

9. Summary Chart as geographic map Physical and visible approach Use of pron chart as worktable Visual dictation: default classroom activity Few special materials needed Possibility for full integration of pron Mistakes are the syllabus We do not teach the symbols …

12. Further information: 5-Day intensive training: Bell School Cambridge 1 st July 2013 Blog: adrianpronchart.wordpress.com App: SOUNDS: The pronunciation app Book: Sound Foundations (Macmillan ELT) Online: Links to demos, videos etc in handout

14. SOUNDS: The pronunciation app The ultimate mobile English pronunciation aid for students and teachers. Based on the best-selling Macmillan title Sound Foundations by Adrian Underhill SOUNDS helps you study, practise and play with British and American pronunciation

16. Macmillan Online Conference 8 th November 2012 Pronunciation: The Cinderella of ELT Thank You! Adrian Underhill Blog: adrianpronchart.wordpress.com