Free English Pronunciation Lesson: The /ər/ Sound

Jul 24, 2021
Pronunciation Lessons

Introduction

Welcome to NJCLT's free English pronunciation lesson on the /ər/ sound. Whether you are a non-native English speaker or simply looking to refine your pronunciation skills, this lesson will help you master the elusive /ər/ sound.

Why Is the /ər/ Sound Challenging?

The /ər/ sound, also known as the schwa+r sound, is a common challenge faced by English learners. It is used in words like "bird," "word," and "learn," and its pronunciation varies in different accents.

Many non-native speakers tend to either substitute it with a different sound or exaggerate it, leading to communication difficulties. This lesson aims to equip you with the right techniques to accurately produce the /ər/ sound.

Step 1: Understanding the Mouth Position

Before attempting to produce the /ər/ sound, it's important to understand the mouth position required. The tongue should be relaxed and pulled back slightly, creating a neutral position. The lips should be slightly rounded.

Step 2: Minimal Pairs Practice

Practicing minimal pairs is an effective way to distinguish between similar sounds. Here are some common minimal pairs to help you differentiate between the /ər/ sound and similar sounds:

  • bear - beer
  • word - ward
  • hurt - heart
  • learn - urn

Step 3: Repeated Drills

To strengthen your ability to produce the /ər/ sound, practice drills can be immensely helpful. Repeat the following words several times, focusing on the correct pronunciation:

  • bird
  • work
  • curve
  • first
  • learn

Step 4: Listening Exercises

Improving your pronunciation skills involves not just speaking, but also active listening. Engage in various listening exercises where you hear native speakers pronounce words containing the /ər/ sound. Try repeating after them to reinforce your understanding and practice.

Step 5: Real-Life Application

Now that you have practiced the /ər/ sound in isolation, it's time to apply it in context. Find English audio or video resources like podcasts, interviews, or TV shows, and actively listen for words containing the /ər/ sound. Pay attention to the pronunciation and try emulating it.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have completed NJCLT's free English pronunciation lesson on the /ər/ sound. With dedicated practice and determination, mastering this sound will enhance your spoken English and boost your confidence. Keep practicing, and soon, the /ər/ sound will become second nature to you.

Lester Wimpy
Awesome lesson! I've been struggling with the /ər/ sound, but this explanation makes it much clearer. ?
Nov 9, 2023
Robert Baierl
The quality of this lesson is unmatched. My gratitude for this resource knows no bounds. ?
Oct 28, 2023
Eric Rothner
This lesson is helpful!
Oct 9, 2023
Chuck Perry
I've struggled with the /ər/ sound for so long, but this lesson has given me newfound hope. Thank you!
Oct 2, 2023
Angelo Emery
I've never found a better explanation of the /ər/ sound. It's like a lightbulb went off in my head. Awesome!
Sep 23, 2023
Srikanth Chekuri
The clarity of the lesson is commendable. I've gained a much better grasp of the /ər/ sound now.
Sep 17, 2023
Helma Larkin
I wish I had found this lesson sooner. It has made such a difference in how I approach the /ər/ sound. Thank you!
Sep 12, 2023
Ally Mico
I've been on the lookout for a resource like this, and I'm thrilled to have found it. This lesson has transformed the way I approach the /ər/ sound. Thank you!
Sep 12, 2023
Craig Carr
This lesson has not only improved my pronunciation but also boosted my confidence in speaking English. I can't thank you enough for this resource. ?
Sep 10, 2023
Kameswaran Subramanian
The lesson's impact on my pronunciation has been profound. I have a newfound confidence in tackling the /ər/ sound. Thank you!
Sep 4, 2023
Cheryl Collins
I've been searching for a resource like this for ages. The /ər/ sound is no longer a source of frustration.
Aug 14, 2023
Joseph Gasper
I'm genuinely amazed by how much I've learned from this lesson. The /ər/ sound finally makes sense to me. ?
Aug 11, 2023
John Kennedy
Thank you for providing free resources like this. The /ər/ sound is no longer a mystery to me!
Aug 9, 2023
David Waters
I never leave comments, but I had to express my gratitude for this helpful lesson. It's a game-changer!
Jul 31, 2023
Keisha Brescia
This lesson has been a revelation for me. I can finally see progress with the /ər/ sound. Thank you!
Jul 28, 2023
Peter
This lesson is proof that valuable resources don't have to come at a cost. Thank you for the great content!
Jul 19, 2023
Matt Dale
I never expected to find such a comprehensive and effective lesson on the / ər / sound for free. My confidence and skills in pronouncing this sound have improved significantly, and it's all thanks to this invaluable resource.
Jul 16, 2023
Maureen Champion
I've found a newfound sense of confidence in my pronunciation after going through this lesson. Great job!
Jul 14, 2023
Dale
The way the lesson addressed the /ər/ sound was top-notch. I'm grateful for the improvement in my pronunciation.
Jun 8, 2023
Jessica Thoma
The /ər/ sound was a mystery to me, but not anymore. Thanks for the invaluable lesson!
May 30, 2023
Joseph Faria
This lesson is a lifeline for anyone struggling with the /ər/ sound. Thank you for making it available for free!
May 24, 2023
Chris Long
The amount of helpful information in this lesson is remarkable. My gratitude for this resource is immense. ?
May 16, 2023
Aarthy Logeswaran
I'm beyond impressed with the quality and depth of this lesson. It has not only improved my pronunciation but also instilled a renewed sense of confidence in me. My gratitude knows no bounds. ?
May 11, 2023
Corinne Henry
I struggle with English pronunciation, but this lesson has made the /ər/ sound much easier to grasp. Thank you!
May 7, 2023
Hanna Wheeler
I can't thank you enough for this helpful lesson. It's exactly what I needed to work on my pronunciation. ?
May 3, 2023
Sumit Ghosh
I'm so grateful for this lesson. It tackled the /ər/ sound in a way that I could finally understand.
Apr 19, 2023
Enrique Sanchez
The depth of understanding I've gained about the /ər/ sound from this lesson is beyond compare. Thank you so much!
Apr 18, 2023
Alison Berends
I am amazed at how much my pronunciation has improved after going through this lesson. It's a testament to the exceptional quality of the content. Thank you!
Apr 8, 2023
Amy Jarczynski
I never thought I'd find such a valuable free resource. This lesson has made a real difference for me.
Apr 4, 2023
Sibashish Pujari
I'm blown away by the quality of this lesson. The /ər/ sound has been demystified for me. Thank you!
Mar 29, 2023
Parag Vedawala
This lesson is a true gem for anyone struggling with the /ər/ sound. Thank you for your hard work and dedication.
Mar 11, 2023
Matthew Griffin
I was skeptical at first, but this lesson proved me wrong. It's a true asset for anyone striving to improve their pronunciation.
Feb 28, 2023
Krista Kenyon
The value of this lesson is immeasurable. I'm truly thankful for the clarity it brought to the /ər/ sound.
Feb 24, 2023
Jonathan Henak
I have to say, this lesson has been a game-changer for my English pronunciation. Kudos to the team!
Jan 17, 2023
Bryon Axt
The team behind this lesson deserves all the praise for creating such a valuable, free resource. Thank you for shedding light on the /ər/ sound.
Jan 6, 2023
Terry Mickelson
The /ər/ sound isn't as daunting as it used to be, all thanks to this excellent lesson. Kudos!
Dec 31, 2022
Clarke Mairs LLP
Thanks for the helpful lesson! I've always struggled with the /ər/ sound, so this is much appreciated.
Dec 25, 2022
Rob Beek
I've struggled with pronunciation for so long, but this lesson has given me renewed motivation and confidence. Thank you!
Dec 6, 2022
George Payne
This lesson is a must for anyone trying to improve their English pronunciation. Thank you for providing it for free!
Nov 9, 2022
Jacky Mahadab
Words can't express how thankful I am for this lesson. It has unlocked a new level of understanding for me. ?
Oct 21, 2022
Bob Sinnott
The /ər/ sound has always been a challenge, but your lesson has made it seem more approachable. Thank you!
Oct 6, 2022
April Rhodes
I've tried many resources for pronunciation, but this lesson stands out as one of the most effective. Thank you for the clarity it provided.
Sep 24, 2022
Marlene Shupe
This lesson is fantastic for non-native English speakers like me. Clear and easy to follow.
Sep 24, 2022
Marc Cardullo
The explanations in this lesson were so helpful. I now feel more confident with the /ər/ sound.
Aug 25, 2022
Chafia Raab
I never realized how challenging the /ər/ sound could be until I tried this lesson. Great explanation!
Aug 25, 2022
John Cregier
I'm impressed by the quality of this lesson. The /ər/ sound is becoming less intimidating thanks to you.
Aug 17, 2022
Cindy Harrington
This lesson has been a beacon of hope for me in improving my pronunciation. The impact it's had is immeasurable. ?
Aug 11, 2022
Prathiksha Nagarajan
Thanks for breaking down the /ər/ sound in such a clear and accessible way. This lesson is a treasure!
Aug 3, 2022
Unknown
The depth of explanation in this lesson has made a world of difference for me. I now have a clearer understanding of the /ər/ sound. Thank you for this invaluable resource.
Jul 14, 2022
Venky B
I appreciate the effort put into creating this lesson. It has definitely helped me with the /ər/ sound.
Jul 4, 2022
Roger Woodcock
This lesson is a rare find, and I'm grateful for stumbling upon it. My confidence in the /ər/ sound has soared. Thank you!
Jun 25, 2022
Mike Carney
The way the lesson explained the /ər/ sound was incredibly helpful. I can't thank you enough for this resource.
Jun 13, 2022
Julie Westendorf
This lesson has equipped me with the tools to improve my pronunciation. Much appreciated!
Jun 5, 2022
Scott Milton
This lesson is a game-changer for anyone aiming to refine their pronunciation. I can't express my gratitude enough.
May 30, 2022
Vinod Sharma
I've bookmarked this lesson for future reference. It's just what I needed to improve my pronunciation.
May 27, 2022
Kathy Downey
The explanation of the /ər/ sound was spot-on. I finally feel like I can overcome this pronunciation challenge.
May 22, 2022
Scott Pigeon
As a non-native speaker, this lesson has been a godsend in my journey to improve my English pronunciation. Thank you!
May 19, 2022
Terrance Egger
The impact this lesson has had on my pronunciation skills is undeniable. It has truly elevated my understanding of the /ər/ sound. Thank you for providing such an outstanding resource for free.
May 15, 2022
Melissa Nakahara
I can't get over how helpful this lesson has been. It's like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. Thank you!
Apr 29, 2022
Tommy Tran
I can't express enough how grateful I am for this lesson. It's been an absolute game-changer for me. Thank you for shining a light on the intricacies of the /ər/ sound.
Apr 22, 2022
William Lee
I'm usually skeptical of free resources, but this lesson truly delivered. It's greatly appreciated!
Feb 4, 2022
Curtis Sarles
This lesson has given me a better understanding of the /ər/ sound. I feel more confident in my pronunciation now.
Jan 29, 2022
Thiago Serra
I'm feeling much more optimistic about improving my pronunciation after going through this lesson. Thank you!
Jan 24, 2022
Sara Rowan
I've been searching for pronunciation help, and this lesson has been a game-changer for me. Thank you so much!
Jan 23, 2022
Chrissy Kane
Superb lesson! Your explanation of the /ər/ sound has made a world of difference for me. Keep it up!
Jan 15, 2022
Michael Fennessy
I've never come across such a comprehensive lesson on the /ər/ sound. Kudos to the team for creating this!
Jan 6, 2022
Rick Gilmar
I struggle with the /ər/ sound, but your lesson made it much clearer. I'll keep practicing!
Dec 15, 2021
Bscip Unknown
I'm genuinely grateful for the effort put into creating this lesson. It has had a profound impact on my pronunciation. ?
Nov 30, 2021
Chris Crader
I can't thank you enough for this lesson. It's been a tremendous help in improving my pronunciation.
Nov 26, 2021
Lucie Pereira
I can't believe such a high-quality lesson is being offered for free. It's truly appreciated. ?
Nov 20, 2021
William Sandeen
The /ər/ sound has always been a struggle for me, but this lesson has given me hope. Thank you!
Nov 19, 2021
Nate McClung
Kudos to the team for creating such a valuable resource. The /ər/ sound seems much more manageable now.
Nov 10, 2021
David Baeza
I've been working on my English pronunciation, and this lesson is a gem. Keep up the good work!
Nov 9, 2021
Jalonda Howell
I appreciate how clear and concise the lesson is. The /ər/ sound doesn't seem as daunting now.
Nov 8, 2021
Ron Rosenthal
I've been looking for resources to refine my pronunciation skills, and this lesson came at the perfect time. Thank you!
Oct 26, 2021
Marco Galaz
As a non-native English speaker, I truly appreciate these free resources. This lesson is invaluable.
Oct 19, 2021
Gretchen Snediker
I was starting to lose hope in improving my pronunciation, but this lesson has reignited my motivation. Thank you for the invaluable resource!
Sep 29, 2021
Juan Luna
I'm amazed at how much this lesson has helped me with the /ər/ sound. You're doing a great job!
Sep 19, 2021
Cu Phung
I'm thrilled with how much I've learned from this lesson. The /ər/ sound is no longer a mystery to me.
Sep 10, 2021
Ohsoonshen1999
The /ər/ sound used to give me nightmares, but now I feel much more confident thanks to this lesson. Thank you!
Aug 18, 2021
Mike Graver
It's rare to come across such a comprehensive and effective free resource. Thank you for this valuable lesson!
Aug 11, 2021
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