1.

3 Phonology
Sounds and symbols answers
Section A: Sounds and spelling
Listen to the words in recording 1. How do you spell them? 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) women exotic knock hothouse weather rash ration

Comprehension questions
a) Which words have sounds which are similar to the letters? b) c) d) Exotic and hothouse are pronounced in the same way as the individual letters in them are pronounced The first k in knock is not pronounced HoTHouse and WeaTHer Rash and ration

Which words have letters which are not spoken? Which words contain the same two letters which are pronounced in different ways? Which words contain the same sound which is spelt in two different ways?

Reflection questions
a) Are the letters in a word a good guide to their pronunciation? b) Sometimes, but not necessarily. English contains many silent letters and lots of letters or combinations of letters which can be pronounced in different ways Drilling and repetition is one method which might suit some learners, but it does not provide a written record. Phonetic symbols (see next section) can help here.

How can we help students learn the correct pronunciation of a word?

An English global product

The British Council, 2008 The United Kingdoms international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations. We are registered in England as a charity.

1.3 Phonology
Section B: Different pronunciation
Listen to the speakers in recording 2. They are each saying the same word. Which word? 1) 2) 3) 4) bath water schedule controversy

Reflection questions
a) b) c) Which pronunciation is correct? Both. The different pronunciations are due to accent, dialect, or personal preference. Your choice! Again, this would be your choice, although some teachers may demonstrate both pronunciations and allow students to choose. Which one sounds nicer to you? Which one would you teach to your students?

An English global product

The British Council, 2008 The United Kingdoms international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations. We are registered in England as a charity.