Week 1 discussion 2 - Essay Example

Week discussion Although rare, children learning a language for the first time might also struggle with pronunciation of certain sounds indicating that pronunciation difficulties are not limited to children learning a second language. Research findings identify strategies that are useful in rectification of pronunciation difficulties (Gagen, 2007). These include; Good modeling: children learn different aspects of language through mimicking those around them. Therefore, it is crucial for instructors and parents to pronounce the words that children are struggling with slowly putting emphasis on the important phonetic sounds.

For example, pronunciation of words with /s/ or /z/ requires one to keep the tongue locked behind the teeth.Use of symbolic sound: this refers to one syllable words or sounds that are easy to produce; for example, “moo” or “woof”. Using symbolic sounds encourages vocalization and allows children to relate words with similar sounds; hence, pronounce them in the same way.Observation skills: comprise of skills that require children to focus on a specified task. In relation to pronunciation difficulties the instructor might assign a simple observation task to the student.

This task will require the child to observe the instructor’s mouth as he/she pronounces different sounds. Communication temptation: this concept incorporates the use of rewards, both tangible and intangible (for example, praise) to encourage and reinforce appropriate pronunciation.ReferenceActivities and strategies to help develop Speech and Language Skills. (2013, January 15). Retrieved from i Communicate: http://www.icommunicatetherapy.com/child-speech-language/child-speech-language-development/activities-strategies-help-develop-speech-language-skills/Gagen, M. R. (2007, January 13).

Addressing Speech Difficulties During Reading Instruction Tips for Helping a Child Pronounce Specific Sounds. Retrieved from Right Track Reading: http://www.righttrackreading.com/tipstosaysounds.html