CATESOL24

How can you pronounce what you cannot hear? In this presentation, we'll examine how second language/accent speech sounds are acquired, compare it to first language learning. We'll discuss the role that listening, hearing, and perceiving play in producing, pronouncing sounds, words, and pitch contours in an additional language or accent. Participants will see and experience ways to promote listening discrimination activities that help learners improve their pronunciation of sounds and pitch contours.

Language development happens faster in environments where learners hear lots of talk, including stories, conversations, descriptions, and advice. English learners can develop skills to help create such language-rich environments. When learners work to generate more talk, they create more opportunities to practice language skills at home, at work, or at school. Presenters describe classroom activities that develop adults' ability to tune in, talk more, and take turns in everyday conversation. Participants review pragmatic and interactive integrated skills activities for use in contexts such as vocational ESL, and teacher-training courses.

Current and future teachers of pronunciation are warmly invited to gather with experienced practitioners and newcomers interested in teaching pronunciation at any level, in dedicated pronunciation courses or integrated into reading, writing, listening, speaking, vocabulary, or multi-skills courses. We'll review TOP-IG activities and concerns from 2023-2024 and discuss possibilities for the coming year. Share your experience with a group of like-minded peers. Bring your ideas and questions as we hear from our colleagues who teach pronunciation and who will be sharing their experiences and best practices. Get ideas that you can use to inform your classroom teaching. Relax and chat!