Exercise 1-59: Practicing Word Groups CD 2 Track 33
When I read the paragraph this time, I will exaggerate the pauses. Although we're working on word groups here, remember, I don't want you to lose your intonation. Repeat each sentence group after me.
Hello, my name is ___________. | I'm taking American Accent Training. There's a lot to learn,| but I hope to make it as enjoyable as possible. | I should pick up on the American intonation pattern pretty easily, although | the only way to get it is to practice all of the time.| I use the up and down, or peaks and valleys intonatîon | more than I used to. I've been paying attention to pitch, | too. Iťs like walking down a staircase. | I've been talking to a lot of Americans | lately, and they tell me | that I'm easier to understand. | Anyway, I could go on and on, | but the important thing is to listen well | and sound good. Well, | what do you think? Do I?
+ Next, back up the CD and practice the word groups three times using strong intonation. Then, pause the CD and practice three more times on your own. When reading, your pauses should be neither long nor dramatic — just enough to give your listener time to digest what you're saying.
