Lesson 1 Crossing the borders
Mastering English Pronunciation
Lesson duration is: 45 minItems in this lesson
Mastering English Pronunciation
Reading; The Witches
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Which classroom rules do you remember?
Learning Objective
At the end of the lesson you can recognise and pronounce standard British English sounds, and spot key differences with your own accent.
Setting the Stage: Class Rules
We start in Dutch. Our class rules help us focus and feel safe: Keep your desk organised, bring your materials, and remember the 3-warning rule. Respect creates a great learning space.
Switching to English: The Liverpool Text
Let’s warm up with the Liverpool introduction! Liverpool has a very recognisable accent (Scouse). Today’s goal: standard British English – Received Pronunciation.
Received Pronunciation: The 'Queen’s English'
Received Pronunciation (RP) is known as 'The Queen’s English.' It’s the standard accent used on the BBC. It often sounds very clear and formal.
The Golden Rule: The Silent R
In British English, the letter ‘R’ is not pronounced at the end of a word or after a vowel, unless another vowel follows. Example: 'car' sounds like 'caa'.
Word Categories: Pronunciation Practice
• Silent R: car, Saturday, for, learn, turn, never, ever • Long vowels: tomatoes, see, heat, afternoon • Short vowels: coffee, Bluetooth • Th/ Sh: thirteen, healthy, tooth, thatch, passion
Category
Tip
Make vowel sounds long for Silent R, use deep 'ah' for 'tomatoes', keep 'th' soft, and don’t pronounce the letter ‘l’ in 'talk'!
Listen & Repeat: Pronunciation Drill
Listen to audio and repeat the words. Can you use the Queen’s English? Focus on the Silent R and long vowel sounds. Mimic the standard British accent.
Who Sounds 'Posh'? Accent Detective
Listen to James Corden and other speakers. Which ones use RP, and which have a more relaxed accent? Guess who sounds most 'royal'!
Exercise 2 page 10, Write the answers in your coursebook.
Then discuss your answers with your neighbour (next to you). In English!
Accent Challenge: Partner Check
In pairs, take turns reading sentences aloud: “On Saturday afternoon, I had a coffee and tomatoes during an interview.” Use your best royal accent with silent R’s! Your partner listens for mistakes.
Test Yourself: Exit Check
Classroom Rules
When do you pronounce the 'R' in British English? How do you say 'Wednesday' and 'tomatoes'?
What happens at the third warning? Why is it important to have your materials ready?
Pronunciation
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.
Well Done! See You Next Lesson
