Publication details

Introduction to Word and Sentence Stress

Authors

ZITA Antonín

Year of publication 2023
Type Article in Periodical
Magazine / Source Humanising Language Teaching
MU Faculty or unit

Language Centre

Citation
Web Odkaz na elektronickou verzi článku
Keywords word stress, sentence stress, ESP, English, English as secondary language
Description While the pronunciation of individual words can be somewhat straightforward to practice, using word and sentence stress properly is challenging. In some cultures, the practice of word and sentence stress is limited in both primary and secondary education. As a result, identifying a user of English as not being a native speaker is usually fairly easy, as they generally struggle when it comes to conforming with the rules for word and especially sentence stress in their speech. Naturally, incorporating the speech patterns of one’s primary language into their secondary language is a common and even expected phenomenon. Still, it is important to explain to learners of English that stress is an invaluable speech tool in English and that correct use of word and sentence stress greatly improves one’s communication skills. In other words, the point of this activity is to introduce learners of English to the basic concepts of word and sentence stress and make them think about the flow and rhythm of their spoken English.

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