How To Sound Like A Native English Speaker: Connected Speech

The video tutorial explains features of connected speech, focusing on intrusion, linking, and elision. Intrusion involves adding sounds to ease transitions between words, such as the intrusive R, yuh, and w sounds. Linking connects consonant and vowel sounds across word boundaries. Elision involves omitting sounds, particularly in complex consonant clusters or unstressed syllables. Practical examples illustrate these concepts, with caution advised against overuse, which can lead to non-standard accents.

What is the purpose of using an intrusive 'r' in connected speech?

• To change the meaning of the sentence

• To emphasize the first word

• To create a pause between words

• To help the flow between vowel sounds

Which of the following sentences demonstrates the use of an intrusive 'yuh' sound?

• We saw Anna on YouTube.

• I've got my eye on you.

• Do you want to ask a question?

• The media are waiting outside.

In the context of linking, what happens when a word ending in a consonant is followed by a word starting with a vowel?

• The words are linked together

• The consonant is omitted

• A new word is formed

• The words are pronounced separately

What is the main feature of elision in connected speech?

• Linking words together

• Changing word order

• Adding extra sounds

• Deleting certain sounds

Which word is an example of elision where the schwa sound is often lost?

• Library

• Christmas

• Sandwich

• Interest

When is it most appropriate to omit 't' and 'd' sounds in speech?

• When emphasizing words

• When speaking slowly

• In consonant clusters

• At the beginning of a sentence

Which sentence shows the omission of the 't' sound?

• David has got two portions.

• Next Monday must be your birthday.

• You shouldn't have left.

• The Nile is the longest river.

What should you be cautious about when omitting the 'h' sound in speech?

• It can change the meaning of words

• It is always incorrect

• It is only used in formal speech

• It can lead to misunderstanding if overused

In the sentence 'David has got two portions, but the others have got three,' which feature of connected speech is NOT present?

• Omission of 'h'

• Linking

• Intrusion

• Elision

What is the effect of mastering connected speech features?

• It makes you sound more formal

• It helps you sound more natural

• It changes your accent completely

• It complicates your speech