Clarity over Accent
Lessons Learned from Teaching TOEFL
When speaking a in a foreign language, especially concerning those studying for English. I think there’s too much emphasis on “sounding natural” in terms of accent. What’s more important is clarity in speech — speaking in a way that anyone could understand you. This is a relevant point most English trainers will acknowledge.
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This is why I tell my students to focus on using the full range of their mouth while speaking English so that they can produce the each sound clearly so they can be understood.
I had a TOEFL once who would constantly speak with his mouth relatively closed and this made his speech a bit unclear. I offered my suggestion to him numerous times, but he still continued to speak in this manner. What happened next was astonishing for him.
During speaking practice, I had him record his response. First, he was instructed to speak as he normally would. When listening to the recording he stated that he had difficulty understanding himself. On the second recording, I told him to focus on using the full range of his mouth as he spoke and not to worry if he took longer than usual. His initial reaction was speechless and he eventually stated that he could understand himself much better.
There’s two lessons to be gained from this. First, accent doesn’t matter, but clarity does. The second is this; sometimes you just have to demonstrate what you mean rather than simply telling them. Moreover, this is also why I instruct my students to record and evaluate themselves when practicing at home.
Has anyone ever tried this? I’d like to hear what other’s think
