"Proper English Pronunciation" takes more than one form. There is formal or traditional English pronunciation--sometimes called "The Queen's English"--which not even everyone in England speaks. There is English spoken by the other people of the world, including Americans, with their native accents. And there is the legacy of English pronunciation in territories once under British rule. English is now a universal language, and there is a generally recognized standard of correct pronunciation through which we can understand one another. Whether your goal is to learn to speak English better or to master the Queen's English, there are simple tools you can use to achieve your goal.
Instructions
English As She Is Spoken
1. To learn about formal and less formal English pronunciation, start by watching the 1964 Warner Brothers film, "My Fair Lady." In this film, a phonetics expert, Professor Henry Higgins (Rex Harrison) accepts a wager challenge to teach a Cockney flower seller, Eliza Doolittle (Audrey Hepburn) to speak "proper" English or "The Queen's English." The sharp wit of the lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner, created a defining film about proper English pronunciation and the many variations, even among native English speakers.
2. Listen to English speakers, especially broadcasters who speak "The Queen's English." Some sources claim that the formality of the Queen's English is less stated now; however, it remains the official standard of spoken English. In parallel, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is the channel of choice for proper English pronunciation. Listen to their broadcasts for lessons in correct English pronunciation and clear enunciation. In my opinion, here in the United States, Brian Williams, Anchor of NBC Nightly News, and Christiane Amanpour, Chief International Correspondent at CNN, stand out among broadcasters for their English pronunciation and clear enunciation.
3. Learn or improve English pronunciation by listening to audiotapes. These are English-language teaching tapes of the "repeat after me" school, and they come with written textbooks so that you can read and listen simultaneously to the audio lessons. They allow learners to "pronounce along" and thus familiarize themselves with English words, phrases and sentences. You can progress at your own pace by listening to it as much or as little as you want. Audiotapes are widely available in stores and online. At some websites, customers can listen to test tapes before deciding whether or not to buy (see Resources).
4. Practice speaking English with someone who speaks well, and don't be afraid of making mistakes, because conversing in English is the most active and direct way to master proper pronunciation. Some English speakers give conversation classes for a fee, as is a common practice in many foreign countries. If you happen to be fluent in a language other than English, make a deal to teach that language in exchange for lessons in English.
5. Read aloud speeches or English literature to improve pronunciation and gain a general command of English. This activity requires that you listen to yourself as you speak. You can also arrange group reading sessions with like-minded friends or acquaintances so that everyone benefits and can help one another with the correct pronunciation. The more you read aloud, the more confidence you will build in public speaking and the more your English pronunciation is likely to improve.
6. Take part in an English-language study program in another country. Study abroad programs are conducted all over the world and offer you the opportunity to experience a new culture and meet new people (see Resources).
