Perception of Prosodic Speech Features: Final Intonation and Word Stress for EFL Learners

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Uzun T.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE LITERATURE AND CULTURE RESEARCHES, vol.7, no.2, pp.212-223, 2024 (TRDizin)

• Publication Type: Article / Article
• Volume: 7 Issue: 2
• Publication Date: 2024
• Doi Number: 10.37999/udekad.1449612
• Journal Name: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE LITERATURE AND CULTURE RESEARCHES
• Journal Indexes: MLA - Modern Language Association Database, ERIHPlus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM), Index Chemicus (IC)
• Page Numbers: pp.212-223
• Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The acquisition of intelligible pronunciation in a second

language (L2) hinges on successfully managing the

perception and production of speech features. In this

regard, prosodic speech features, particularly intonation

and word stress are of critical importance. This study

investigates the diagnostic perception test results of the

learners of English as a Foreign Language (EFL)

(N=125) in Turkish higher education context, analyzing

their scores on intonation and word stress sections. The

results reveal that participants performed better on

identifying final intonation patterns compared to word

stress items while both areas demonstrated certain

challenges. Scores were lower for items with final

falling intonation, particularly evident in interrogative

wh- / how questions, suggesting complexities in

processing this feature. Additionally, word stress

accuracy decreased with increasing syllable count. No

significant correlation was observed between intonation

and word stress scores. These findings highlight the

importance of recognizing intonation and word stress as

distinct yet interconnected aspects of pronunciation,

calling for effective instructional approaches to address

these key components of L2 sound system.