Investigation of Techniques for Teaching Pronunciation in a College-Level Beginner French Course

Abstract

Despite the importance of correct pronunciation, there is often a lack of explicit pronunciation instruction in beginner-level foreign language courses. Teachers sometimes believe that students acquire pronunciation through mere exposure to the target language. Phonetics, i.e. the description of sound articulation and the use of written symbols to represent pronunciation, is typically reserved for upper level courses. This poster argues that using phonetics in beginner-level French courses can help establish a strong foundation for more accurate pronunciation.