CÂU HỎI THƯỜNG GẶP

UNIT 3: ENGLISH VOWELS (cont.)

1. How many diphthongs are there in the English language, 7 or 8?

In some materials, you can see the list of 8 diphthongs. However, this module and our course
books say that there are only 7 diphthongs. It is because the eighth diphthong /ʊə/ is currently
disappearing in Received pronunciation, in favour of /ɔ:/, in the so-called Cure-force merger. For
example, the word “tour” is pronounced as either /tʊər/ or /tɔːr/.

2. Are there any differences between American and British diphthongs and triphthongs?

Yes, there are. You can notice that the diphthong /əʊ/ in British English is pronounced as /oʊ/ in
American English. Also, instead of having the centring diphthongs, American English prefers to
have a monophthong+/r/ sound. For example, the word “hear” is pronounced as /hɪər/ in British
English but /hɪr/ in American English.

3. Does this course teach American or British pronunciation?

The main materials for this course are in British English. However, the course aims at covering
the similarities between these two types and point out the differences for the learners.

4. Should I practice American or British pronunciation?

It’s up to you, really. It would be a good idea if you practice the type of English that you listen
to frequently in your daily life. While you practice one type, you should also know about the
other to improve your understandability.

5. How do I know that I have pronounce the vowels correctly?

You could ask an English teacher or a friend who is good at English to check for you, or you can
use apps or websites. This is one free website that may be helpful
https://app.speechace.co/placement/course/5 . Record, then click on the word to see which part
you get it wrong.

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