What is the best way to improve pronunciation?
Mimicking native speakers!
This is recommended by us to students more than any other method.
Today you’ll learn why this is such a useful way to spend time.
We’ll also give recommendations of what to mimic, as not all resources are the same!
You’ll learn how to use it to improve your intonation and pronunciation.
For all the strategies you need to improve IELTS Speaking scores, sign up for 3 Keys IELTS!
Watch the video now!
Mimicking strategy
One of our students wrote in with an awesome strategy!
Check it out!
I love 3keys. I got 8.5 in speaking and it’s all because of you. I still remember during my test, i told myself when I enter the speaking room, I am jessica beck. And i got 8.5 🙂 thank you. I’m now moving to UK. Dreams come trueeee! God bless you guys
This student pretended they were Jessica during the Speaking exam.
They channeled her confidence and positivity.
This gave them confidence!
He then scored 8.5!
Why does it work?
It improves all your scores!
- Vocabulary
- Fluency/Coherence
- Pronunciation
- Grammar
While mimicking, your pronunciation is not the only skill that improves!
It helps all your scores!
#1: Vocabulary score
Turn on closed captions when watching a television show.
You will learn vocabulary, phrases and expressions while mimicking.
This will ensure you understand each word.
Add 3-4 words or phrases to your vocabulary notebook each time you practice mimicking.
Be sure to learn vocab in context.
Add them with the phrase you learn them in.
Then make sure to use them right away and often!
#2: Pronunciation score
This is the main score you are targeting when you mimic.
Listen to ten seconds and then pause it and repeat it back exactly how you heard it.
Copy their pronunciation and intonation.
Can you tell what emotion they’re feeling?
Are they expressive?
Students often use a monotone when speaking.
This may be because they’re focused on what they are saying rather than how they’re saying it.
The tone is also vital!
It must be appropriate and varied to score 7+ on IELTS Speaking.
#3: Fluency/Coherence score
Every time you listen to, read or speak English, your fluency improves.
You will gain ideas so you have something to say for every question.
Additionally, you will learn transition phrases to use for both Speaking and Writing.
A variety of resources can be used for mimicking to improve all these scores.
- Podcasts
- Movies
- Television shows
- News programs
- YouTube channels
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#4: Grammar score
The best way to learn grammar is NOT memorizing grammar rules.
It is NOT reading a textbook or completing worksheets.
Instead, the best way to learn grammar is to hear or see it used correctly.
As you are mimicking, you are hearing correct grammar.
As you read, you see correct grammar used.
Whenever you expose yourself to English, pay attention to the grammar.
The power of confidence
You have to sound native and natural on the Speaking exam.
This is very difficult to do if you are nervous or anxious.
On the other hand, it is much easier if you feel confident.
You can then relax and remember what you need to do.
- Use slang and informal language
- Use idiomatic language including idioms and phrasal verbs
- Use a variety of intonation and appropriate tone for each question
When you feel confident, this is much easier!
Use this student’s strategy to imagine you are someone else!
Channel a character you admire
Jessica recently had a Speaking class with a student from Mexico.
She found out he loves the TV show Modern Family.
She suggested he mimic the character Phil.
He is very expressive and uses a variety of intonation.
She suggested he channel Phil on test day for increased confidence!
Takeaway
Confidence is key on the IELTS exam!
One of the best ways to gain this is through mimicking.
This activity improves all 4 scores for IELTS Speaking.
Complete this activity daily and be systematic and intentional about it.
Take the time to learn vocabulary and grammar while improving your pronunciation and fluency.
This way, you’ll get the scores you need on test day!
For all the strategies you need for IELTS, sign up for 3 Keys IELTS today!
What questions do you have from today’s episode?
Please leave a comment below.
