Phonology: Using
Visual Support to Illustrate / Verbalize Pronunciation
Props are always helpful in supporting pronunciation. Use a mirror so the student can look at his lips or mouth during the production of a certain sound. Employ a styrofoam tray to distinguish, for example, between the “b” and “v” sound (the “v” might leave teeth marks). Grab hold of a rubberband to express the lengthening of a vowel (the short “i” in bit vs. the long “e” sound in beat ). There is an excellent video on YouTube of a presentation given in 2011 by Judy B. Gilbert, author of Clear Speech (2004) and Clear Speech from the Start (2005) entitled “Teaching Spoken English: Seven Essential Concepts.” Gilbert is quite convincing that pronunciation can be taught. She demonstrates a variety of ways to do so, including the use of a kazoo to demonstrate pitch, hand / arm movements (think “the wave”) to highlight emphasis. Her presentation is worth watching. See the link on the Links page.
Props are always helpful in supporting pronunciation. Use a mirror so the student can look at his lips or mouth during the production of a certain sound. Employ a styrofoam tray to distinguish, for example, between the “b” and “v” sound (the “v” might leave teeth marks). Grab hold of a rubberband to express the lengthening of a vowel (the short “i” in bit vs. the long “e” sound in beat ). There is an excellent video on YouTube of a presentation given in 2011 by Judy B. Gilbert, author of Clear Speech (2004) and Clear Speech from the Start (2005) entitled “Teaching Spoken English: Seven Essential Concepts.” Gilbert is quite convincing that pronunciation can be taught. She demonstrates a variety of ways to do so, including the use of a kazoo to demonstrate pitch, hand / arm movements (think “the wave”) to highlight emphasis. Her presentation is worth watching. See the link on the Links page.