PhD candidate Blair Hongzhi Wang shares highlights from her studies on Mandarin English speakers’ pronunciation and teaching strategies that can help learners develop their intelligibility.

In this interview, Blair talks about:

1. Vowel sounds Mandarin English speakers find challenging and why

2. The meaning of intelligibility and its relevance to research and teaching

3. How similar sounds between learners’ L1 and English doesn't always make learning easier

4. How gestures and perception-based activities can support learners in tackling sounds they find challenging.

While Blair's research is focused on Mandarin English speakers, the tips and teaching strategies she shares can be adapted to other sounds and the needs of your learners.

To learn more about Blair's studies, contact her here or visit the City, University of London website here. To watch this episode with closed captions on YouTube, click here.

References
Flege, J. E. (1995). 'Second Language Speech Learning Theory, Findings, and Problems', in Strange, W. (ed.) Speech Perception and Linguistic Experience Issues in Cross-Language Research. Timonium: MD York Press, pp.233-277

Wang, H. (2023, April 20) A Systematic Review: The Identification of Segmental Mandarin-Accented English Features. IATEFL Harrogate, UK

Passy, J. (2010) Cued Articulation: Consonants and Vowels (Revised Edition). ACER Press

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Credits

Podcaster & Producer Laura Wilkes

Audio-Video Editor Haven Tsang

With thanks to our inspiring guest, Blair Hongzhi Wang.

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