How to Teach Pronunciation for Global Communication

OVERVIEW

When pronunciation is presented in many published materials and taught in class, the prime focus is typically on imitating a standard British or a general American pronunciation model. Nevertheless, since English is primarily used as a tool for global communication among people whose first language is not English, such an approach becomes questionable. For example, there is no evidence that these two models of pronunciation are actually the most intelligible in international contexts nor achievable for most adult learners.

This talk will thus provide participants with clear pedagogical principles and practical activities forming an alternative approach to teaching pronunciation. More specifically, it will start with an overview of the most important findings from the last 20 years of pronunciation research in international contexts. It will then provide participants with clear pedagogical principles they can use to teach pronunciation. Finally, participants will see an array of practical pronunciation activities that they can use with their students.