Segmental and Suprasegmental Pronunciation Patterns of Japanese Learners of English

Abstract

This study analyzes the pronunciation patterns of two Japanese learners of English by investigating the segmental and suprasegmental features of their pronunciation compared to the General American (GA) pronunciation model using a pre-determined dialogue. Although they are non-native speakers and have had limited exposure to formal pronunciation instruction, their performance highlights the possibilities of second language (L2) learners to obtain highly intelligible pronunciation. The pronunciation analysis is presented within the context of American English in Japan and the common pronunciation errors and difficulties Japanese learners of English may encounter during the language acquisition process. Furthermore, a consideration of teaching and learning implications in relation to the Japanese Katakana language system and the native speaker syndrome effect on pronunciation will be presented to support the acceptance of pronunciation intelligibility over native-like pronunciation.