Teaching knowledge wiki

The teaching knowledge wiki is a collection definitions of ELT terminology. Each entry includes a definition, an example illustrating the concept and information about how the concept can be applied in the classroom context.

If you want to suggest a new word to add please contact us.

 
Teaching English

  
Phonemic script

Phonemic script is a transcription of the sounds of a word or phrase, using phonemic symbols from the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA).

Example
The phrase 'please do it' can be transcribed as /pli:zdu:wit/ (without stress marked), showing an intrusive /w/ sound.

In the classroom
Phonemic script is a useful tool for many features of English pronunciation. Learners can be introduced to the phonemic alphabet systematically, and this knowledge can help them approximate pronunciation models, and use dictionaries. Dictionary use can show learners silent letters, weak forms, main word and sentence stresses, and features of connected speech, such as elision and intrusion, as in the example above.

© British Council, 10 Spring Gardens, London SW1A 2BN, UK         © BBC World Service, Bush House, Strand, London WC2B 4PH, UK