7 Creative Ways to Teach English Pronunciation in TEFL Classrooms

🎤 Introduction:

Pronunciation is one of the trickiest areas for English learners — and often the most overlooked by new TEFL teachers. Clear pronunciation is key to being understood, building fluency, and boosting learner confidence. But teaching it doesn’t have to be boring or repetitive.

🎯 7 Pronunciation Activities That Work

1. Minimal Pairs PracticeFocus on words with only one sound difference (e.g., “ship” vs. “sheep”) to train ear discrimination.

2. Pronunciation Pyramid GamesStudents identify target sounds from multiple word options. It’s competitive, fun, and effective.

3. Record and ReflectLet students record themselves speaking — then self-assess with a checklist.

4. Use Mouth Diagrams and MirrorsHelp students understand mouth placement and sound production visually.

5. Stress and Intonation DrillsPractice rising/falling intonation using question drills or short dialogues.

6. Shadowing TechniqueStudents repeat immediately after native speaker audio. Great for rhythm and tone.

7. Tongue TwistersFun and fast-paced way to train difficult sounds — useful as warm-ups too!

   
   

💬 Why Focus on Pronunciation?

• Improves intelligibility

• Increases speaking confidence

• Helps with listening comprehension

• Prepares learners for real-world English use

  
  

Making pronunciation a regular part of your lessons — even just 5 minutes a day — leads to major improvements over time.