The International Phonetic Alphabet can look like a monster to many students and teachers. Just look at it:
It does look pretty scary, but calm down! This chart can be your friend and help you and your students improve their pronunciation skills. It is important to add here that I value all types of your pronunciation. I believe, however, that mispronunciation can sometimes lead to problems in communication, but if students are able to take advantage of the context their in and the uses of language they can make themselves understood to others.
I am taking a Phonetics and Phonology course and some classmates suggested really great apps to practice pronunciation via understanding the phonetic chart. The first one is Sounds by Macmillan. Just take a look at this video:
The app is very interactive. It contains quizzes, teaching and learning tips and other resources! The app has a free version and a premium one that has more features.
Another great app to help you and your students practice is Pronunciation Focus by Cambridge English Online. It has many fun games to make learning more enjoyable. The app is paid, but they have a website that is free to use. Take a look: Pronunciation Focus website.
Now on Youtube there is the channel Rachel's English that I always recommend to others! She discusses American pronunciation, linking, rhythm, intonation, stress and much more! Her focus is on non-natives speakers. Take a look at her introducing her channel:
Do you any other resources to help your students improve their pronunciation?
I'd love to hear your suggestions!
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