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Why Accent Training:
You have a fluent command of English, and yet you still sometimes encounter situations where people don't seem to understand you. Your career and personal life are being negatively affected by people's difficulty understanding your accent. Speech Modification's Accent Reduction Technique (S.M.A.R.T.) training does more than just change your pronunciation of English. We work on specific targets tailored to your exact needs, as well as the components you need to allow you to speak clearly and effectively across settings. The Process: During your initial consultation and assessment we will highlight training targets and set short-term goals for your personal improvement. Training sessions will be arranged to fit your schedule, typically once per week for 30 - 60 minutes. Or you can choose from our online video courses for a customized training anytime, anywhere. The Results: In eight to twelve weeks, depending on the frequency of training sessions and individual practice, you will noticeably improve your speech clarity and confidence as a speaker. You will see fewer communication breakdowns and increased understanding from those listening to you. Challenging communication events such as making presentations, telephone calls or meetings will improve with your new skills in getting your message across clearly and confidently. Online Practice to enhance your skills, available anytime:
Online practice supports your training in between sessions with your trainer, and allows you continued practice on your own for continued refinement of your accent. Thousands of video and audio practice files for all elements of the American accent give you the tools you need to improve your personal and professional communication. |
What People are saying about American Accent Training With Speech Modification
"The salesperson understood me the first time I said my name. I didn't have to repeat myself! -Annie A, Native French speaker
It's very hard to change your accent or speak clearly just by practicing yourself. I tried various ways to practice my accent so that people at my work or school could understand me better, however, all those ways that people recommended online seemed to not be helping me. After I started my American Accent Training, I got a better idea of my pronunciation error pattern and the ways to change it. Within a short amount of time, I noticed a big change in my English speaking. Fewer people asked me to repeat my sentences again during the conversation. This also helped me to gain more confidence in front of people. Moreover, my trainer, Christine, supported me a lot with my training and always understood what I needed. It's a great training! - A.S., Biology student
For as long as I can remember, most of the people whom I interact with, at home and work, are reluctant to point out flaws in my speaking English. I am deeply appreciative of your guidance and patience throughout the 8-week training. The online practice is of high quality with respective to the clarity and pace of the recording. I am sure I'll continue to visit the site frequently.
- T.N., retired scientist |
Individual Accent Training (4 session package)
One-to-one Skype sessions with individualized training targets to meet your needs. Choose 30-, 45- or 60-minute sessions. Four session package includes assessment, all training materials, and one-year subscription to S.M.A.R.T. Video course. Sessions arranged to fit your schedule.
Free consultation available prior to training to answer all of your questions.
Free consultation available prior to training to answer all of your questions.
Assessment of Accent
A full assessment of your current speech patterns, available online. Your recordings will be analyzed for pronunciation and intonation patterns, and a written report will be sent to you highlighting the elements of your speech which contribute to your accent. Can be used in conjunction with our S.M.A.R.T. Video Course to customize your training.
Group and Corporate Accent Training: Get a Quote
Group sessions with individualized training targets for each group member. Multiple language backgrounds can be addressed in single group. Schedule arranged to meet your needs.
Add to cart, fill out your name and contact information, and we will contact you to arrange training. Free consultation available prior to committing to training to answer all of your questions.
Add to cart, fill out your name and contact information, and we will contact you to arrange training. Free consultation available prior to committing to training to answer all of your questions.
Trial Lesson
Speech Modification is pleased to offer a trial lesson to our members interested in American Accent Training. Your 30-minute Skype lesson package will include the following:
- Instruction and Training on a high-impact pronunciation target
- One month of free access to our clients-only SMART online practice
- Introductory exercise for learning American Intonation
- Personalized tips and recommendations for you for self-study
What are the elements In learning an American accent ?
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ARTICULATION
and PHONOLOGY Articulation, or how we physically say the sounds that make up words, can affect the way we speak American English. If needed, drill and practice on incorrect sounds can greatly increase intelligibility.
 Spoken word "like" with typical error pattern for speaker whose first language is Vietnamese.
 Spoken word "like," Standard American English.
Waveform and spectrogram images can assist you in seeing differences in articulation.
Phonology, or the sound system we have in our brains that helps us interpret language, differs in every language. The phonemes of your native language affect your ability to hear and correctly produce American English sounds. When you hear yourself speak, your brain tells you it is correct because of your native phonemes. Listening discrimination and speech practice on American English phonemes can allow you to drastically improve your own pronunciation.
Copyright 2018 Christine Dunbar
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INTONATION
and RATE Intonation is the pitch and flow of our speech. American English is characterized by patterns of intonation which carry meaning. Misunderstandings can occur when unintentional meaning is carried with non-standard intonation. Learning to hear and use standard American English intonation is key to improving your speech.
 Spectral analysis showing pitch and amplitude.
Speech analysis software can highlight and provide feedback for appropriate patterns in the pitch of your speech.
Rate is the speed at which we speak. Speaking too quickly or too slowly can make your speech difficult to understand. Learning to use the appropriate rate, pausing and speech shortcuts found in standard American English will make your speech more easily understood by Americans.
LANGUAGE
and WORD CHOICE Language is the way we combine words to give meaning. Frequently speakers of standard American English use idioms, jargon and figures of speech. Use of more colorful language appropriate to your setting will help your speech conform to standard American English.
Word choice influences how we are perceived. Sometimes choosing the most commonly used word is to your advantage. Examining your audience and having the skills to select the appropriate vocabulary for that audience will enhance your personal and professional communication.
Online practice supports your training in between sessions with your trainer, and allows you continued practice on your own for continued refinement of your accent. You can also work independently with our S.M.A.R.T. Online Courses.
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