English Phonetics
许德华
Objectives of the Course
This course is intended to help the students to
improve their English pronunciation, including
such elements as
1) the correct pronunciation of individual
phonemes and words in English
2) the rhythmic patterns of the English language
3) patterns and functions of English intonation,
so that the students will be able to communicate more
effectively with good pronunciation and intonation.
Course content
1.English phonemes: correct discrimination and
pronunciation
2.Stress of English words and sentences: basic
rules and functions
3.English rhythmic patterns: basic features and
functions
4. English intonation: structures, functions and
use
English
West Germanic language
About 325 million native speakers:
Britain, 56 million
the USA, 232 million
Canada, 24 million
Australia & New Zealand 17 million
The sole official language in more than two
dozen countries
The most important language of commerce The
most widely learned second language
Elements of good English
pronunciation
to pronounce correctly the individual speech sounds
of English
to pronounce correctly the speech sounds in their
combinations in isolated words as well as in
sentences
to speak fluently with correct rhythm, including the
correct placement of stresses and pauses and the
transition of sounds according to the context
to speak with appropriate intonation according to the
context
Syllable & Stressed Syllable
What is a syllable?
A word part and the basic unit of English rhythm
What is a stressed syllable?
ba NAAAA na
Syllable 1 Syllable 2 Syllable 3
(short) (long) (short)
Stressed Syllables & Unstressed
Syllables
Stressed syllables are strong syllables.
Unstressed syllables are weak syllables.
Stressed syllables:
are long
have a pitch change
have full vowel sounds.
Unstressed syllables:
are short
often have a reduced vowel sound.