Tips to improve pronunciation skills in English

Pronunciation and its importance

There are many parts to study and practice when it comes to learning a foreign language. Some of them are the grammar or vocabulary. Other parts include speaking, writing, listening and reading. Pronunciation is usually seen as a challenge when it comes to learning a new language. Despite this, it is essential for great spoken communication. Good pronunciation boosts someone’s confidence and there are many tips to improve pronunciation in English.

Use the pronunciation symbols written out in the English dictionaries

In Britain, there are very different English pronunciation types. Did you know that spoken English has approximately 45 different sounds? Moreover, the English alphabet has 26 letters. Therefore, even if a word has a number of letters, the sounds’ number could be higher, lower or equal. For this reason, there is a system consisting of a group of symbols. Some of them look exactly like letters whereas others are very distinct. This is why it is very useful for learners to use the pronunciation symbols written out in the English dictionaries.

Learn about weak forms of pronunciation

Another useful tip is to practice pronunciation with native speakers. Because they have a fluent and fast speech it can cause difficulties in understanding. This is why it is significant to take into consideration what they do when they speak. For example, when they pronounce ‘and’, they say ‘n’. This feature is part of the weak forms which include vowel sounds’ weak pronunciation.

Pay attention to the link between some words

Another feature which should be considered is the linking between the final consonant and the initial vowel of two words. Even if in writing we can see the gaps between words, in fluent English communication they are usually absent. For example, there is a smooth transition when a word ends with a consonant and the next one starts with a vowel. The sentence ‘cup of tea’ is very often pronounced ‘cupevtea’.

Concentrate on the mouth movements

Did you know that there are twelve mouth positions for vowel sounds? Learners can try and analyse the native speakers’ mouth movements. It can be useful if they can then speak in front of a camera or mirror trying to imitate the methods.

Recording

When someone learns to communicate in English, he or she could tend to focus more on speaking quickly like native people rather than correctly. This is why recording is one of the most useful tips in understanding and spotting the pronunciation mistakes. Learners can try to record themselves when they read a book or newspaper.

Improve the listening skills

Listening is another part of learning a new language and it plays a significant role when it comes to enhancing pronunciation skills. Learners can try to listen to the radio or podcasts, watch movies or TV shows. This makes it easier to understand not only the intonation but also the way English speakers stress some words.

Conclusion

To sum it up, even if the pronunciation is seen as the hardest part to learn, it is very important for gaining great speaking skills. In English, there is a lower number of letters than sounds and this is why it is very useful to learn the symbols from the dictionary. Learners can try and practice English with native speakers and see their mouth movements and try to mimic them in a mirror. Moreover, by listening to podcasts, radio or by watching movies, learners can notice the pronunciation features such as weak forms and the link between some words. Additionally, learners can practice and record themselves when they read out loud.