Q. What is accent reduction?
A. It's
the analysis and practice of elements that make up the sounds and patterns of a language.
Some of these elements include:
-Intonation (Speech music created by pitch changes)
-Rhythm (The patterns created by stressed and unstressed syllables)
-Vowel length
-Liaisons (Word connections)
-Minimal Pairs (Similar sounds)
-Phrasing (Speaking in short phrases rather than word by word)
Spoken language can be analyzed in a way similar to the study of music.
Music has written symbols and theory but it's ultimately performed. Just as
a piano teacher helps piano players perform better, so does an accent
reduction teacher. You learn theory, practice and repeat and repeat and repeat until internalized.
Q. Do you teach grammar?
A. I
do teach grammar if it's a problem in a student's spoken language. My
accent reduction students have already studied grammar in books and only need correction or reminders. If a person
uses incorrect grammar most of the time, I'd recommend taking General
ESL lessons and building basic knowledge and skills first.
Q. Do you teach people on-site or in their homes?
A. No, I don't.
Q. Do you teach young people?
A. I teach teens but not children.
Q. What do I need to study with you?
A. You need to download Skype (free) and a computer. A headset is recommended but not necessary if your room
is
quiet. A web cam is recommended but not necessary. You need to be
comfortable using the Internet, sending emails and using Skype.
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(continued)
Q. Do you give homework?
A.
Yes, definitely. Practice is essential. I also provide feedback
on exercises by email, between sessions. The more homework a
student does, the more feedback they can get between Skype sessions!
Q. Can I speak like a native English speaker?
A. I
guess it's possible, but It's not likely that you'll speak exactly like
a native speaker. Most people's results include better articulation of
all sounds, correct stress, a more native-sounding
intonation and rhythm and improved clarity. They find there is less need to repeat what they've said.
Q. How long does it take to change my accent?
A. Most people need a minimum of 6 months. Most of our speech habits are unconscious. It take
awareness and a lot of practice to make lasting changes. I believe the skills
and knowledge you learn from accent training will allow you keep
learning after lessons are done. You begin to think differently about
language and notice new things.
Q. Do you use textbooks?
A. There
is one kit with books and audio Cd's I use for some people. For
others, we only use online resources. I don't use pre-made online
courses. I find resources for each of my students.
Q. Do employers pay for the training?
A. Yes, often. In this case, I bill directly to the employer.
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