English pronunciation: stage 1 (intensive)
Time: 10:30 - 15:00
Location: Keeley Street
- Course Code: DS019
- Dates: 15/07/24 - 19/07/24
- Time: 10:30 - 15:00
- Taught: Mon-Fri, Daytime
- Duration: 5 sessions
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: David John Gwillim
Course Code: DS019
Duration: 5 sessions
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What is the course about?
The aim of the course is to enable speakers of other languages to soften the characteristic sounds of their native
tongue when speaking English, and to acquire an accent closer to Standard English/RP.
A high level of commitment is essential.
What will we cover?
Detailed study of the articulation of the Simple Vowel sounds and Consonant sounds of Standard English
Repetition of exercises to facilitate ease of articulation of these sounds.
The use of the neutral sound in unstressed syllables.
Strong form/Weak form of some commonly used words, and correct usage.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
Articulate correctly the simple vowel sounds of Standard English.
Articulate correctly the consonant sounds of Standard English.
Differentiate clearly between the relative lengths of the various Simple Vowel sounds.
Identify the differences between spelling and sound.
Recognise the Phonetic symbols which represent all the sounds studied – and apply this knowledge when using
an English Pronunciation (Phonetic) dictionary.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
In order to get the most from the course you will be able to:
• Speak English fluently.
• Communicate in group situations.
• Give and receive constructive feedback.
• Read and respond to a range of texts.
• Take course notes for your own use.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The articulation process of each sound is explained and demonstrated by the tutor.
All Simple Vowel and Consonant sounds are practised through repetition – both group and individual work. You will be expected to do some homework every day in preparation for the next class.
As part of the course content, your tutor may record your image for initial and ongoing assessment purposes. You are entitled to decline to participate in the recording of your image.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Course Notes/Hand-outs are supplied by the tutor. Students are required to provide themselves with a small hand-mirror; a pen/pencil and note-book/sheets of A4 paper.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
You can progress to English Pronunciation Stage 2 Intensive, the following week.
David Gwillim graduated in 2002 from the Central School of Speech and Drama with an MA in Voice Studies. Before this he had been a successful actor for thirty years in television, films and theatre, working for the BBC and ITV, in Hollywood and the West End, and for the Royal Sharkespeare Company. After graduation he taught at RADA, ALRA and other London drama schools. In 2006 he began teaching at City Lit, where he now specialises in English pronunciation for speakers of foreign languages. He has the Certificate for Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.