1.

3 Phonology

Sounds and Symbols

Listen to the recordings on the Sounds and symbols resource, and answer the questions below:

Section A: Sounds and spelling

Listen to the words in recording 1. How do you spell them?

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2)

3)

4)

5)

6)

7)

Comprehension questions
a) Which words have sounds which are similar to the letters?
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b) Which words have letters which are not spoken?

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c) Which words contain the same two letters which are pronounced in different ways?
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d) Which words contain the same sound which is spelt in two different ways?
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Reflection questions
a) Are the letters in a word a good guide to their pronunciation?
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b) How can we help students learn the correct pronunciation of a word?

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An English global product

© The British Council, 2008

The United Kingdom’s 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)

Reflection questions
a) Which pronunciation is correct?
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b) Which one sounds nicer to you?

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c) Which one would you teach to your students?

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An English global product

© The British Council, 2008

The United Kingdom’s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations. We are registered in England as a charity.