21Chirchik State Pedagogical University Current Issues of Modern Philology and Linguodidactics
Staatliche Pädagogische Universität Chirchik Aktuelle Fragen der modernen Philologie und Linguodidaktik
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IMPROVING ENGLISH PRONUNCIATION THROUGH SHADOWING
TECHNIQUE.
Madina Farhodjon qizi Akhmedova
Student, Chirchik State Pedagogical University [email protected] Scientific adviser: Nafisa Rahimovna Kobilova
ABSTRACT
This article explores the efficacy of utilizing the shadowing technique as a means to improve English pronunciation proficiency among language learners. Shadowing involves the simultaneous repetition of spoken language, focusing on mimicking intonation, rhythm, and stress patterns. Drawing upon recent research in language acquisition and pedagogy, this study investigates the benefits of shadowing in enhancing learners' phonetic accuracy and fluency. The methodology includes a controlled experimental design, incorporating pre-and post-tests to measure pronunciation improvement.
Keywords: English pronunciation, speaking skill, shadowing technique, pronunciation symbols, confusing sounds, TED presentations.
In English communication, pronunciation matters since it affects how well an interlocutor can understand a spoken message (Evers & Chen, 2020). According to Jeong et al. (2018), achieving the intelligibility level is a great benchmark for non-native English speakers learning English pronunciation. The ability of a listener to recognize a speaker's speech sounds and comprehend the messages those sounds convey is referred to as "intelligible English pronunciation" (Blake et al., 2019). Therefore, to improve their English speaking abilities, non-native English speakers need to acquire and practice making accurate and understandable English speech sounds. In Indonesia, English is taught using an integrated curriculum starting in the seventh grade and lasting until the twelfth.
According to "Teacher-education' in English teaching in Vietnam," (Toan, 2015), Vietnamese schools have spent years emphasizing English grammar and reading comprehension. As a result, teachers and students in these programs are trained to be specialists in vocabulary and grammatical structures, but not to apply these talents as a language. Hence, it is not normal for non-native speakers to make pronunciation errors; nevertheless, losing the capacity to pronounce words correctly after knowing English for a long time is not. Many students may begin to doubt their ability to
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Chirchik State Pedagogical University Current Issues of Modern Philology and Linguodidactics
Staatliche Pädagogische Universität Chirchik Aktuelle Fragen der modernen Philologie und Linguodidaktik
^hirchiq^avlat^edagogika^niversitet^
speak English as a result of this reality. There are various methods for helping pupils pronounce words more correctly. The shadowing method is among them. A method of studying languages called shadowing gained popularity in Japan. Similar to listening and repeating a practice, the learners are expected to mimic the speaker as precisely as possible in a small amount of time, rather than listening to a sample speaker and then repeating what they have learned.
Advice for learning how to pronounce words correctly in English.
Efficient speaking is necessary for productive communication. especially when conversing in English. Fortunately, there are a number of methods and techniques available to help with pronunciation. These pointers can help students learn how to pronounce words in English. Let's look at some of the best ways to pronounce words correctly in English so that you can communicate with people more effectively. Listen to yourself and write
It's often difficult to hear pronunciation errors in your own speech because you are concentrating on actually communicating rather than the sound you are making. It's difficult to fix your pronunciation errors if you can't hear yourself. Try using a smartphone or computer to record your voice, then identify the areas that want improvement.
Speak and check
This tip is the opposite of the last one. At this point, you speak the words and allow a website or dictation software to record them. You must have pronounced it correctly if it records what you said! If not, however, you may have not uttered those words clearly, therefore double-check any mispronounced terms. (Remember, though, that dictation software is not perfect.) For this tip, you'll need a dictation app or website. Many phones have voice dictation functions.
Record yourself
Using your phone, prepare a few sentences and record yourself saying them. After that, play the recording. Do you think your pronunciation is correct? Did any noises seem confusing to you? Or was it moving too slowly? In addition, you can record yourself saying the lines you heard in tip 1 and then compare the two versions. A lot of people find it unpleasant to hear themselves speak! If you can get past this response, though, it's a useful tool for pinpointing areas where your pronunciation needs work.
Learn pronunciation symbols
Did you realize that there are over 40 distinct sounds in English, but just 26 letters?
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Chirchik State Pedagogical University Current Issues of Modern Philology and Linguodidactics
Staatliche Pädagogische Universität Chirchik Aktuelle Fragen der modernen Philologie und Linguodidaktik
^hirchiq^avlat^edagogika^niversite^
Special symbols are used to indicate pronunciation. For example, the word enough is /i'nAf/. It is evident from this that the initial sound of enough is /b/ rather than /e/, despite being spelt with an 'e'. Acquiring knowledge of these symbols will enable you to recognize distinct sounds with greater accuracy. Although learning the symbols requires some effort, it's not too difficult—many of them are clear. Most likely, you can already predict what /n/ and /f/ sounds signify. These symbols are used by most dictionaries. All of the symbols are also audible and visible in the Sounds Right app.
Focus on confusing sounds
We recommend concentrating on sounds that, if mispronounced, could be confusing to listeners. Here are a few illustrations. Both long and short vowels, such as /r/ and /l/, e.g., I want to live here (short /b/ sound) vs. I want to leave here (long /i:/ sound). Could you please fix the file? versus Could you please pick up the file? Consonant clusters: clothing, for example, can be pronounced as close or close. Make a note of any misunderstandings like these when you practice your English and work on pronouncing them correctly.
SHADOWING
An advanced method for learning a language that learners can employ on their own to get better at pronunciation and intonation is shadowing. The idea is really straightforward: you repeat what a model says in real time after listening to them speak on video or audio. Take note that this is not the listen-pause-repeat of the past! The idea is to repeat what you hear as quickly as possible, word for word and sound for sound. Although the idea is simple, the practice requires a lot of cognitive work. Conference interpreters practice this type of work to improve their abilities. It can be quite helpful when used on a regular basis as part of a more comprehensive learning program, and your children can practice it anywhere, anytime.
"The Shadowing Process: After you've finished reading the content once more, begin listening to it. This time, you want to mimic or mimic the narration and actors as accurately as you can. Repetition of all they say is the ultimate goal. Saying everything they say at exactly the same moment as the recording is ideal. If you're not very familiar with the subject at first, you can wait to repeat a statement until it's finished. Don't merely recite the words without emotion when you parrot them. Copy what the native speaker says, including the exact pronunciation and voice inflexion. You'll drive yourself insane trying to be flawless in all of this.
Trying to keep up is your objective. You'll get better at shadowing this material the more times you do it. Thus, just decide that you're going to enjoy yourself with this rather than striving to perfect your presentation right away." ( "English fluency for an advanced English speaker: How to unlock the potential to speak English flu-
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Chirchik State Pedagogical University Current Issues of Modern Philology and Linguodidactics
Staatliche Pädagogische Universität Chirchik Aktuelle Fragen der modernen Philologie und Linguodidaktik
^hirchiq^avlat^edagogjka^niVBBiitiii^^^^^^^^lSllli
ently" Whitney Nelson )
An alternate shadowing strategy that might be more appropriate for you is provided below.
I'll explain it in further detail in this piece, along with a step-by-step guide on how to use it with your students. Select a model
- Locate a brief audio clip—no more than five minutes—that features just one speaker. Although they don't have to be native speakers, they should talk effectively and with proficiency.
- A TED presentation or news article would be an excellent places to start (see the sample video below).
2. Listen
Listen to the audio once at least to get acclimated to the speaker's accent, rhythm, and intonation before you begin shadowing. You shouldn't worry if you don't comprehend every word, but if it moves too quickly or is too complicated, find another source.
3. Practise shadowing At first, this may be difficult, but make an effort to rapidly and accurately repeat what the speaker says.
- Begin with 20 to 30 seconds, and if you run into trouble, simply pause the music and try again. Remind your students that they are merely attempting to replicate the speaker's voice and are not particularly concerned with meaning.
4. Record yourself
Try filming yourself once you've had some practice and feel more comfortable. Using your computer or smartphone, record your voice while you listen to the audio through your headphones. 5. Listen back
- Play back the recordings and contrast their speech with the source material. You can complete this as a class or on your own. Be mindful of the fact that most people find it uncomfortable to hear their own voices.
In conclusion, this study underscores the efficacy of the shadowing technique in improving English pronunciation proficiency among language learners. Through the structured repetition of spoken language, focusing on intonation, rhythm, and stress patterns, learners can significantly enhance their phonetic accuracy and fluency. The findings of this research highlight the importance of integrating shadowing
April 23-24, 2024
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Chirchik State Pedagogical University Current Issues of Modern Philology and Linguodidactics
Staatliche Pädagogische Universität Chirchik Aktuelle Fragen der modernen Philologie und Linguodidaktik
Chirchiq davlat pedagogika universiteti Zamonaviy filologiya va lingvodidaktikaning dolzarb masalalari
into language instruction as a supplementary tool to traditional methodologies. Educators should recognize the potential of shadowing to empower learners in overcoming pronunciation challenges and fostering more effective communication skills. As language learning continues to evolve, embracing innovative techniques like shadowing can contribute to more holistic and impactful language acquisition experiences. Moving forward, further research and exploration into the nuances of shadowing and its application across diverse learner populations will be instrumental in optimizing its effectiveness in English language education.
REFERENCES
1. "English fluency for an advanced English speaker: How to unlock the potential to speaking English fluently" Whitney Nelson 69- 73.
2. Kobilova , N. R. (2022). IMPORTANCE OF PRONUNCIATION IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE COMMUNICATION. Academic Research in Educational Sciences, 3(6), 592-597.
3. Nafisa Raimovna Kobilova (2022).PRACTICAL-BASED TECHNIQUES TO DEVELOP STUDENTS' PRONUNCIATION IN EFL CLASSES Academic Research in Educational Sciences, 3(11), 643-647.
4. https://medium.com/app-to-leam-english/english-with-the-shadowing-technique-a-guide-from-metkagram-5f3f93bd0fac
5. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362320384 Improving Students' Engli sh Pronunciation Competence by Using Shadowing Technique
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