The IATEFL Pronunciation Special Interest Group (PronSIG) invites you to a webinar with Thomas Purnell entitled “Pronunciation of American English Vowels”! The webinar will take place on Saturday, 21 March 2026 at 13:00 pm UK time.
Register for the webinar via the IATEFL website here:
Abstract
This survey of variation in American English (AmE) vowels has implications for teaching pronunciation. In addition to the relatively expansive vowel set, AmE vowels exhibit variable patterns of placement in the mouth. Having a clearer understanding of the vowel set and variations is a first step for those communicating with AmE speakers. A second concern is how vowels and their relationships with one another constitute a system. The notion of vocalic realism, namely that phonology sets boundaries for variation, frames our understanding of observed patterns, not only in AmE but in resulting vowel sets in Global English.
Please note the webinar is free for all to attend, but the certificates of attendance will be sent to IATEFL members only.