Project Rubric

Class Project: Words, Language, and Their Tricky Pronunciation  

Due February 25-27

5-8 minute presentation

Concept and Execution:

I am looking at the difficulties people face concerning English and some of the words they struggle with the most.  From February 1 to the 21, I will interview 2 people a week for a total of 6 interviews, in which I will ask them a little bit about themselves, and then a word they have trouble pronouncing.  

The interviews will be a combination of regular Q&A, video, and some pictures.

Also I will be utilizing my linguistics blog, labyrinthoflanguage.blogspot.com, as the central forum where all the project information will be organized and presented. 

While examining the issues faced concerning language I will focus on:

• Pronunciation
• How we utilize our mouths and other speech organs
• Lastly (if it applies) how the individual’s native language or accent plays a role within their ability to pronounce certain words

Once we get to the word part of the interview, I will ask them the following questions:

• Why is the word so difficult for you to say?
• When did you first start noticing difficulties pronouncing the word?
• Do people normally correct you and how does that make you feel?
• Have you tried working on it or do you choose to kind of stay away from it?

Some of the people I have lined up for interviews are:

• Joseph Blockson (specific vs pacific)
• Hajar (ELS Student)
• Dr. Natalia Tapia (Ecuador accent)
• Myself (conscience, conscientious, conscientiousness)
• Individual with a speech impediment
• Plus 1 other person