Pronunciation
When you listen to a native English speaker, you'll notice how easily the words seem to roll off their tongue. That's because they know how to break words into the correct stress patterns using the syllables of the words. They don't even realize it because this is how they've been speaking their whole lives.
In English, we don't always say a word the same way we spell it. That means that English is not phonetic. Whether you're a beginner or want to improve your English pronunciation, familiarity with word stress patterns is vital.
Pronunciation patterns or word stress patterns will also help you reduce your accent. Most people will love your accent, but if you are serious about learning English, you will have to learn how to form new patterns. You want to sound like you know how to speak English properly.
Tips for effective pronunciation:
Listen to as many native English speakers as you can.
Listen to English television, radio and interviews on the internet.
Learn the English alphabet. Either get a tutor, friend or listen to an audio/video system for assistance.
Practice with English speaking friends as much as you can.
Use a voice recorder to tape yourself and then play it back. This is a great tool to hear your strengths and weaknesses.
Read aloud to friends.
Take classes or a hobby where you have to communicate often. Join a book club, debate or poetry society.
The importance of phonics, sounds and learning the alphabet:
Phonics is a method of teaching people to read by connecting letter patterns or groups of letters and the sounds they represent. Some people do not like to learn this way. It's one way of learning and it's widely used. Learning the sounds and pronunciation of each letter of the alphabet is a very important first step.
Practice writing out the alphabet everyday. As you do this, say the letter aloud.
Listen to an audio recording as you write out each letter while saying the sound of the letter as well.
Use a video lesson with the letters displayed along with a vocal instructor. As you follow it, talk out loud.
Children's books with follow along audio recordings are excellent tools to familiarize yourself with letter sounds.
Get someone to test you with alphabet flashcards. You can even make your own.