Aspects of Connected Speech in the English as a Second Language Classroom

Abstract

To the native English speaker, the operations of connected speech and its ensuing rhythm are crucial aspects of Spoken English, especially in relation to intelligibility, yet most learners and users of English as a second language find it difficult to employ the characteristic English rhythm despite their skilful use of English vocabulary and grammatically correct constructions. Part of the difficulty, may be traced to ignorance of connected speech patterns of the English language. Although some attention is given to related areas like word stress and intonation, other vital aspects like context-based syllable weakening, elision, linking, and contraction are inadequately or sometimes barely treated in the typical English language class. Consequently, this paper examines the neglected aspects of connected speech in an actual language class, and presents the typical response of learners to the operations in order to highlight the problem as well as find creative solutions for it.

Key Words: Connected speech, weakening, linking, elision, rhythm