Diagnosing Speech Perception Problems in Learners

Speech perception, for the purposes of this discussion, refers to the ability of your learners to distinguish
different sounds and speech patterns in English. Research shows there is a clear link between learners
ability to hear a particular sound or pattern, and their ability to produce that same sound or pattern. In
addition, speech perception skills are very important to learners' ability to self-monitor, and to be able to
identify sounds in our three-step process of compare, identify, and then produce.

Diagnosing problems in speech perception can be done easily using a computerized speech perception
diagnostic test called the Perception of Spoken English (POSE) Test. You can access this test at
http://posetest.com. The POSE Test allows you to get individualize reports for each of your learners so
you can compare and find problems that affect your entire class. Because there is a link between
perception and production of sounds and patterns, knowing your learners' perception problems may
also help you find common production problems that you can focus on in your pronunciation mini-
lessons.

Website: http://posetest.com (You will be automatically redirected to the older version at

http://eslactivities.com/pt)