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pronunciations problems

Posted by HUE · May 28, 2007 · 4 replies

I decided to put together a few lessons on pronunciation and intonation for my site, and need everyone's comments/advice. I've only taught Japanese learners of English, and so am very familiar with their problem areas in speaking. But what is it like with other learners? Specifically:

1. Are there specific sounds difficult to pronounce because of the learner's L1?

2. Are there sound pairs that cause problems? For example, Japanese people have a lot of trouble with "b" and "v," or "l" and "r."

Any answers are very much appreciated!

Thank you.

4 Replies

susan53

The best site on the web for a list of the pronunciation problems of each L1 group is Ted Power's site English Language Learning and Teaching.

michèle 2

[ For example, Japanese people have a lot of trouble with "b" and "v," or "l" and "r."
French people have trouble with long vowels and short vowels
For example ship - sheep because in French we just have the second pronunciation ( sheep) and also the "H" which is never pronounced in French.
Must be others but i can't think of any others right now

Michèle

DaveESL

Susan - Thanks for that link, it looks great!

HUE OP

Susan,
Michele,

Thank you for the info, and the link. They'll both prove useful when I start putting some pronunciation lessons together. I've already jotted down some notes for intonation lessons.

Does anyone have any ideas, suggestions, or needs for pronunciation materials?

Thank you!