DAY 3 – Fluency & Natural Speech
LINKING AND CONNECTED SPEECH
Linking is a crucial concept in American English that affects the flow and rhythm of speech. It refers to the way sounds connect and blend together when words are spoken in a continuous stream. Linking helps to create smooth transitions between words and allows for natural and fluent speech.
In American English, linking occurs through three main processes: consonant to vowel linking, consonant to consonant linking, and vowel to vowel linking.
Consonant to Vowel Linking: When a word ending in a consonant is followed by a word beginning with a vowel sound, the final consonant sound of the first word is linked or connected to the vowel sound of the second word. This linking is done to avoid pauses or interruptions between words. For example:
“Good idea” sounds like “Goo-diy-dee-uh.”
“Ten apples” sounds like “Ten-nap-puls.”
“Big elephant” sounds like “Big-ell-uh-funt.”
Consonant to Consonant Linking: When a word ending in a consonant is followed by a word beginning with a consonant sound, the final consonant sound of the first word can be linked to the initial consonant sound of the second word. This linking is done by smoothly transitioning from one consonant to the next without a pause. For example:
“Handbag” sounds like “Han-bag.”
“Red dress” sounds like “Red-dress.”
“Best friend” sounds like “Bes-friend.”
Vowel to Vowel Linking: When a word ending in a vowel is followed by a word beginning with a vowel sound, the final vowel sound of the first word can be linked to the initial vowel sound of the second word. This linking helps in maintaining the flow of speech without breaks. For example:
“I am” sounds like “I-yam.”
“Go out” sounds like “Go-owt.”
“See it” sounds like “See-yit.”
DAY 3 – EXERCISE 1
In this short story, tongue twisters and minimal pairs take center stage, showcasing the playful competition between Max and Lexi. The story highlights the fun and entertaining aspects of these language exercises, while also emphasizing the importance of accurate pronunciation and mastery of specific sounds.
Once upon a time, in a charming little town called Linkington, lived a lively group of friends. They loved to gather at the local café and exchange stories. Today, they decided to embark on a thrilling adventure together.
As they set off, they walked through the picturesque streets, their footsteps echoing on the cobblestones. They shared laughter and anticipation, ready to explore the mysteries that awaited them.
Their first stop was an ancient library hidden among towering trees. The librarian, a wise old woman, welcomed them with a warm smile. She revealed a secret passage leading to a hidden chamber filled with dusty old books. The friends eagerly flipped through the pages, their fingers tracing the words and their minds delving into stories of magic and wonder.
Next, they ventured into the deep, dark forest, where enchanting creatures whispered secrets among the trees. The rustling leaves and hooting owls added to the mysterious atmosphere. They followed a winding path that led to a clearing, where a majestic waterfall cascaded into a crystal-clear pool. Mesmerized by its beauty, they couldn’t resist dipping their toes into the cool water.
As the day progressed, they stumbled upon a charming café nestled by a babbling brook. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and delectable pastries filled the air. They sat at a cozy table, sipping their drinks and relishing the delectable treats. Their animated conversations seamlessly flowed from one topic to another, their words dancing like notes in a symphony.
With the sun sinking low on the horizon, the friends made their way back to Linkington. They reflected on the day’s adventures, cherishing the memories they had created. Their bond grew stronger as they embraced the power of connection, not just through friendship but also through the art of linking words and sounds.
In the end, the friends realized that linking words and sounds added a magical touch to their storytelling and conversations. The rhythm and flow of their speech created a harmony that made their experiences even more memorable.
And so, in the enchanting town of Linkington, the friends continued their journey, exploring new worlds and weaving tales that would be shared for generations to come. They knew that through the power of linking, their stories would forever connect their hearts and minds.
LIAISONS & REDUCTIONS
Let’s practice and use the visual guides as we attempt to liaise and reduce our sentences and improve our American English.
Spelling Pronunciation
My name is Ann. [my nay mi zæn]
American accent [amer’k’ næksent]
LA [eh lay]
909-5068 [näi nou näin, fäi vo sick sate]
I just didn’t get the chance [I jussdidn’t ge(t)the chance]
I’ve been late twice. [äivbin la(t)twice]
Go away. [go(w)away]
I also need the other one. [äi(y)älso need the(y)other one]
What’s your name? [Whacher name?]
Can’t you do it? [Canchoo do it?]
Don’t you like [Donchoo like it?]
actually [achully]
What did you do? [Whajoo do?]
Would you help me? [Wüjoo help me?]
Did you like it? [Didja like it?]
graduation [graju(w)ation]
How’s your family? [howzher family?]
Who’s your friend? [hoozhier friend?]
casual [kazhyoow’l]
usual [yuzhoow’l]
DAY 3 – EXERCISE 2
Let’s practice and use the use the video as an interactive exercise as we further improve our liaisons and reductions.
IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS & COMMON PHRASES
Idiomatic expressions are phrases or sentences in a language that have a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation of the words. These expressions are deeply ingrained in the language and often reflect the cultural and historical context of the society where they are used. Idiomatic expressions are commonly used by native speakers to add color, emphasis, or convey specific meanings in a concise manner.
Common phrases, on the other hand, are regular combinations of words that convey a specific meaning and are widely understood by native speakers. These phrases might not be strictly idiomatic but are frequently used in everyday communication and are an essential part of a language’s conversational repertoire.
“Thinking outside the box” – Refers to innovative and creative problem-solving, looking beyond conventional solutions.
Example: “We need to think outside the box to come up with a unique marketing strategy for this product launch.”
“Hit the ground running” – Means starting a new task or project with energy and enthusiasm, being productive from the very beginning.
Example: “Our new team member is experienced and well-prepared; she’ll hit the ground running on the new project.”
“Get the ball rolling” – Indicates starting a process or initiative, taking the initial steps to get things moving.
Example: “Let’s schedule a kickoff meeting to get the ball rolling on this project.”
“On the same page” – Means being in agreement or having a shared understanding of a particular topic.
Example: “Before we proceed, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page regarding the project’s objectives.”
“Put all our eggs in one basket” – Warns against relying solely on one approach or option, emphasizing the need for diversification.
Example: “We should consider multiple suppliers to avoid putting all our eggs in one basket.”
“Cut to the chase” – Suggests getting to the main point or important information without unnecessary details.
Example: “We have limited time, so let’s cut to the chase and focus on the key findings of the report.”
“A win-win situation” – Refers to an outcome that benefits all parties involved, creating a positive result for everyone.
Example: “By collaborating with that vendor, we can create a win-win situation for both companies.”
“Keep an eye on the ball” – Encourages staying focused on the primary objective or task.
Example: “With so many competing priorities, it’s essential to keep an eye on the ball and stay focused on our quarterly targets.”
“Read between the lines” – Suggests looking for hidden meanings or implications in a message or situation.
Example: “The client’s feedback may be vague; we need to read between the lines to understand their true preferences.”
“Get the hang of it” – Means acquiring the necessary skills or understanding to be proficient in a new task or responsibility.
Example: “The software might be complex, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it in no time.”
DAY 3 – EXERCISE 3
Let’s practice and use the use the video as an interactive exercise as we further improve our business idiomatic expressions and common phrases.