American English Vowels & Placement for All from Udemy

If you want to know everything about vowels and won't settle for just an overview, then this course is for you. If you've taken other courses and still don't feel confident with your pronunciation, then this course is for you. It is dense with detail about every vowel, so you may have to watch certain parts more than once to make sure you've got it. Example sentences are from every day life as well as high tech or business fields, so you will be exposed to a variety of vocabulary. The course includes repetition audio practice so you can repeat the sentences over and over again to develop muscle memory. This course has lessons for learners from various language backgrounds. It will be beneficial for Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese, Japanese, Spanish, French, German, Russian, Persian speakers and more. The instructor has free office hours on Zoom once a month, so you are invited to meet her for questions and to have her check your pronunciation and whether you are incorporating the information properly.

What you'll learn

Adjust your voice to sound more like a native speaker of American English.
Place your voice and resonance in the correct parts of your vocal tract.
Exercise the muscles needed for an American accent.
Make each vowel clearly and articulate clearly.
Produce and distinguish between all the English vowels at the beginning, middle or end of a word.
Speak from a detailed theoretical understanding of the vowels.
Understand different spelling patterns for each vowel sound.
Identify and avoid common pitfalls for each vowel sound.
Connect vowels to other vowels and consonants.
Expand your vocabulary through high tech and professional examples.
And much more.

Requirements

A computer with internet connection is all you need.
You should be willing to practice several minutes a day
You do NOT need any knowledge or experience of pronunciation techniques.
Ask me ANY questions by messaging me. I'm here to help you at any time.

Description

You can speak American English clearly and sound like a native English speaker.

I will show you step by step how to strengthen your tongue, jaw, and lips, and how to use your diaphragm and throat and breathe right. We will get your tongue moving the way an American moves his/her tongue. You will stop confusing bitch with beach and board with bird. We will go through all the different types of vowels and learn how they're related and different. We will practice each vowel in sentences, and you can keep practicing the sentences till they feel natural with the repetition audio recordings included. You will learn skills and knowledge that will benefit you for the rest of your life.

Who this course is for:

Beginner who want to learn without any bad habits right from the beginning.
Intermediate students who have started to learn pronunciation the wrong way
Advanced Students who want to challenge themselves with nuanced detail and high tech vocabulary

When to take this course:

Get started before you feel ready. There will never be a perfect time to start something. There is no better time than now. You have a lot to learn. See you in class :)

What's inside

Learning objectives

Learn how to produce all the american english vowels
Learn proper voice placement for american english

Learn to self-correct
Reinforce your practice with repetition audio practice.

Learn how to produce all the american english vowels
Learn proper voice placement for american english
Learn to self-correct
Reinforce your practice with repetition audio practice.

Syllabus

Introduction

Print out the written lesson in this section so you can keep it next to you while you watch all the lessons in this course. Take notes on it.

Learn exercises to prepare your throat, lips, tongue, diaphragm, etc for speaking English.

This method will get you moving your tongue more so you can sound more like a native speaker.

Move your tongue in a circle around your mouth, picking up most of the vowels along the way!

Learn the 3 diphthongs with the tongue circle method.

Become even more flexible and adept by doing the circles backward. If you can do it backward, then you know you know the material really well!

Learn how the sounds after a vowel affect how much time we spend on a vowel.

Compare all the front vowels.

Learn two methods for making Long E and Short I and how to distinguish between them.

Learn two different methods for making Long A, Long E, Short E and Short A. Learn how to distinguish between all of these.

Learn two methods for Short A and how to distinguish it from Short O.

Compare the central vowels.

Learn two methods for ER.

Learn and practice the most common vowel in English

Don't let yourself be lazy with the Short O. Open wide!

Compare the back vowels.

Don't overdo the Short back U and confuse it with the Long U.

Don't be lazy with the Short back O, or it might sound like the Long O!

Get more practice with the 3 diphthongs.

Listen to a Farsi speaker and learn how to improve his English pronunciation.

I read each sentence from the video lesson three times, so you can repeat after me.

Examine the vowel and placement issues with this speaker from SW China.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Offers detailed instruction on every vowel sound, which is beneficial for learners seeking a comprehensive understanding of American English pronunciation

Includes repetition audio practice, which allows learners to develop muscle memory for correct pronunciation through repeated practice

Features example sentences from everyday life, as well as high-tech and business fields, exposing learners to a diverse range of vocabulary

Teaches learners to strengthen their tongue, jaw, and lips, which are essential for achieving accurate American English pronunciation

Requires learners to print out the written lesson and take notes, which may require access to a printer and paper

Includes accent analysis of speakers from specific regions, which may not be relevant to all learners

Reviews summary

Detailed american english vowel pronunciation

According to learners, this course offers comprehensive and detailed coverage of American English vowels and placement. Students find the teaching methods and exercises highly effective, particularly praising the repetition audio practice for building muscle memory. The instructor is widely regarded as knowledgeable and supportive, enhancing the learning experience with accessible office hours and prompt replies. Many report a significant improvement in their pronunciation and overall clarity after taking the course. While acknowledged as being dense with detail, requiring dedicated effort, this is often seen as a strength for those seeking a thorough understanding. Overall, it's considered a highly valuable resource for serious learners aiming to refine their American accent.

May be challenging for absolute beginners.

"If you have zero background in phonetics, some parts might be tough initially."

"This course is perfect if you're serious about perfecting your accent, not just a casual learner."

"Might be overwhelming if this is your very first step into pronunciation."

Success depends on consistent practice.

"Like anything, you won't improve without putting in the daily practice."

"The course provides the tools, but you really have to do the work yourself."

"Consistency is key to seeing results from the techniques taught here."

Information is detailed and requires focus.

"Be prepared for a lot of information; it's very dense but thorough."

"You might need to rewatch sections because the detail level is so high."

"It's not a light overview, it's a deep dive, which is exactly what I needed."

Audio helps practice and reinforce learning.

"The repetition audio tracks are invaluable for practicing sentences repeatedly."

"Practicing with the audio really helped build muscle memory as the instructor promised."

"I listen to the repetition audio every day; it's making a big difference."

Exercises build muscle memory effectively.

"The tongue placement exercises really made a difference in my pronunciation."

"Specific exercises helped me feel the correct placement in my mouth."

"The practical exercises combined with theory made complex concepts understandable."

Covers all AE vowels in depth.

"This course goes deep into every single vowel, way more detail than I expected. Very thorough."

"I finally understand the subtle differences between similar vowel sounds."

"Detailed coverage on every vowel sound, perfect if you want more than just an overview."

Instructor is supportive and expert.

"The instructor's explanations are crystal clear and she is very patient."

"Office hours are a great opportunity to ask questions and get feedback."

"She answers messages quickly and is genuinely invested in helping students improve."

Students achieve noticeable improvement.

"After this course, I feel much more confident speaking and my clarity has improved significantly."

"Native speakers have commented that my accent sounds much more natural now."

"This course helped me correct long-standing pronunciation errors I didn't even realize I had."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in American English Vowels & Placement for All with these activities:

Review IPA Vowel Chart

Show steps

Familiarize yourself with the IPA vowel chart to better understand the articulation and classification of American English vowels.

Browse courses on phonetics

Show steps

Find an IPA vowel chart online or in a textbook.
Study the chart and identify the symbols for the American English vowels.
Practice producing the sounds associated with each symbol.

American Accent Training

Show steps

Use a popular accent training book to reinforce your understanding of American English vowels.

View American Accent Training with Online Audio... on Amazon

Show steps

Purchase or borrow 'American Accent Training' by Ann Cook.
Work through the chapters on vowels, paying close attention to the exercises.
Record yourself and compare your pronunciation to the recordings in the book.

Minimal Pair Exercises

Show steps

Practice distinguishing between similar vowel sounds by working through minimal pair exercises.

Show steps

Find a list of minimal pairs for American English vowels.
Listen to recordings of the minimal pairs.
Practice saying the words in each pair.
Record yourself and compare your pronunciation to the recordings.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Pronunciation Exchange

Show steps

Practice vowel sounds with a peer to receive feedback and improve your pronunciation.

Show steps

Find a language partner who is also learning American English pronunciation.
Prepare a list of words or sentences that contain the vowel sounds you want to practice.
Take turns reading the words or sentences and providing feedback to each other.

Record Yourself Speaking

Show steps

Record yourself speaking and analyze your pronunciation of American English vowels to identify areas for improvement.

Show steps

Select a passage of text in American English.
Record yourself reading the passage.
Listen to the recording and identify any vowel sounds that you are struggling with.
Focus on improving your pronunciation of those vowel sounds.

Accurate English: A Complete Course in Pronunciation

Show steps

Supplement your learning with a comprehensive guide to American English pronunciation.

View Melania on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of 'Accurate English: A Complete Course in Pronunciation'.
Read the chapters on American English vowels.
Practice the exercises in the book.

Accent Reduction Project

Show steps

Undertake a personal accent reduction project to systematically improve your pronunciation of American English vowels.

Show steps

Create a practice schedule and track your progress.
Identify specific vowel sounds that you want to improve.
Gather resources such as recordings, videos, and exercises.
Record yourself speaking regularly and compare your pronunciation to native speakers.

Career center

Learners who complete American English Vowels & Placement for All will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Accent Coach

The job of an accent coach involves helping individuals modify or adopt a new accent, and this course is highly relevant. This course gives one the tools to dissect and master the nuances of American English pronunciation. With its detailed focus on vowel production, voice placement, and common pronunciation pitfalls, this course offers a comprehensive understanding of the building blocks of an American accent. The repetition audio practice and exercises targeting specific muscle groups involved in speech will be helpful for an accent coach in guiding the learner to achieve the desired sound. The accent analysis, which dissects the speech of non-native speakers, further hones diagnostic abilities.

See salaries and explore the career path for Accent Coach

Voice Actor

A career as a voice actor may become more accessible upon completion of this course. Voice actors need clear and articulate speech to effectively deliver lines for various media, including commercials, animations, and audiobooks. This course emphasizes the production and distinction between all American English vowels, beneficial for a voice actor aiming for a specific accent or character. The detailed theoretical understanding of vowels and the focus on avoiding common pronunciation pitfalls will set a voice actor apart. The repetition audio practice from the course may greatly help improve voice quality, clarity, and articulation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Voice Actor

English Teacher

An English teacher guides students in language acquisition, and this course may make one a more effective instructor. Specifically, this course can help language teachers, especially those working with learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds, to better understand and address their students' pronunciation challenges. The course’s detailed exploration of American English vowels, coupled with its insights into common pronunciation errors for speakers of Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese, and other languages, will allow the English teacher to provide targeted and effective instruction. Furthermore, the course's focus on voice placement and muscle memory development will ensure the English teacher is able to model correct pronunciation effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for English Teacher

Broadcaster

The work of a broadcaster involves communicating information or entertainment through radio or television, and this course helps build clear speech. Clear and articulate speech is essential for conveying the message. This course's focus on American English vowels and voice placement will directly improve the broadcaster's pronunciation and clarity. The repetition audio practice and exercises to strengthen vocal muscles will help the broadcaster develop a consistent and professional speaking style. The accent analysis section of the course offers insights for a broadcaster from a diverse background.

See salaries and explore the career path for Broadcaster

ESL Instructor

An ESL instructor is a language teacher focused on non-native English speakers. This course may be useful for ESL instructors because it provides a deep dive into the intricacies of American English pronunciation. The detailed examination of vowels, voice placement, and articulation may help the ESL instructor diagnose and address specific pronunciation challenges that their students face. The course’s insights into common pronunciation errors for speakers of various languages, coupled with its focus on muscle memory development, ensures an ESL instructor can provide targeted and effective instruction. The repetition audio practice included can also be used during lessons.

See salaries and explore the career path for ESL Instructor

Podcast Host

A podcast host creates and presents audio content, and this course may help them refine their vocal delivery. Clear articulation and a confident speaking voice are essential for engaging listeners. This course's emphasis on American English vowels and voice placement can improve the podcast host's pronunciation, making the content more accessible and enjoyable. The repetition audio practice can strengthen their vocal muscles and develop a consistent, professional sound. With a refined accent and improved vocal control, the podcast host can deliver their message with greater impact and credibility.

See salaries and explore the career path for Podcast Host

Communication Trainer

A communication trainer improves individuals' and groups' communication skills, and this course helps build a foundation for clear speech. The course's focus on American English vowels and voice placement may be helpful to a communication trainer, especially when working with clients seeking to enhance their clarity and confidence in spoken English. The repetition audio practice can be integrated into training sessions, and the accent analysis component can inform personalized feedback. By mastering the nuances of American English pronunciation through this course, the communication trainer helps their clients communicate more effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Communication Trainer

Tour Guide

Tour guides lead groups of people on tours and share information. Clear and engaging communication is key. The emphasis on American English vowels and voice placement may help the tour guide improve their delivery, ensuring that all participants can easily understand the information presented. The repetition audio practice included may develop a more confident tone. By enhancing their pronunciation skills, the tour guide can create a more enjoyable and informative experience for their audience.

See salaries and explore the career path for Tour Guide

Speech-Language Pathologist

A speech language pathologist assesses, diagnoses, and treats communication and swallowing disorders. The detailed focus on American English vowels, articulation, and voice placement covered in this course may be useful in refining diagnostic skills, particularly when working with clients who have accent modification goals or articulation challenges. The course's repetition audio practice can be adapted and utilized in therapeutic exercises, while its breakdown of common pronunciation errors among speakers of various languages can inform targeted intervention strategies. Note that this profession typically requires a master's degree.

See salaries and explore the career path for Speech-Language Pathologist

Public Relations Specialist

The job of a public relations specialist involves managing an organization's communication with the public, and this course may help improve public addresses. The course's emphasis on American English vowels and voice placement will directly improve the speaker's pronunciation and clarity. The repetition audio practice can help the public relations specialist develop a more consistent and professional speaking style. The accent analysis section of the course offers insights for a public relations specialist from a diverse background.

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Customer Service Representative

Customer service representatives interact with customers to provide information and support, and this course can improve the clarity of a representative's speech. The course focuses on mastering American English vowels, voice placement, and articulation, all critical for delivering clear and understandable communication. The repetition audio practice featured can help the Customer service representative develop muscle memory for correct pronunciation. By improving their accent and clarity through this course, the Customer service representative can enhance customer satisfaction and build stronger relationships.

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Academic Professor

The job of an academic professor involves teaching university students and conducting research, and this course can improve pedagogy. Clear and eloquent speech may improve the classroom experience. This course's emphasis on American English vowels and voice placement will directly improve the speaker's pronunciation and clarity. The repetition audio practice can help the academic professor develop a more consistent and professional speaking style. The accent analysis section of the course offers insights for an academic professor from a diverse background.

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Interpreter

Interpreters convert spoken or sign-language statements into another language, and clear speech is important in this job. This course may improve the Interpreter's enunciation in American English. The course's detailed exploration of vowel sounds and voice placement will help the Interpreter refine their pronunciation. The repetition audio practice and focus on muscle memory will help ensure clear and consistent delivery. In addition, the Interpreter will be able to use improved pronunciation to sound more professional and trustworthy.

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Translator

The job of translator involves converting written material from one language into another, and this course may improve spoken fluency. While translators primarily work with written text, strong pronunciation skills can be beneficial for communicating with clients or collaborators, as well as for recording voice-overs or audio versions of their translations. This course's focus on American English vowels and voice placement will improve the Translator's spoken English proficiency, making them more versatile and marketable. The Translator may find the repetition audio practice helpful in developing a more natural and confident speaking style.

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Technical Writer

A technical writer prepares instruction manuals, how-to guides, and other documents. While technical writers primarily focus on written communication, this course may improve vocal delivery when presenting information. This is because the course's focus on American English vowels and voice placement can improve the speaker's pronunciation and clarity. The technical writer may find the repetition audio practice helpful in developing a more consistent and professional speaking style. The new skills may be most useful when creating video tutorials.

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Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in American English Vowels & Placement for All.

American Accent Training with Online Audio

Save

Comprehensive guide to American English pronunciation, covering vowels, consonants, stress, and intonation. It includes audio exercises for practice and is widely used by ESL students and professionals. It provides a structured approach to mastering the nuances of the American accent, making it a valuable resource for learners at all levels. This book is particularly helpful for learners who want a structured approach to improving their pronunciation.

American Accent Training with Online Audio...

Kindle Edition

American English Vowels & Placement for All

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Detailed american english vowel pronunciation

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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