INTEGRATING PRONUNCIATION AND INTONATION INSTRUCTION IN THE EFL CLASSROOM
Keywords:
pronunciation, intonation, EFL classroom, speaking skills, stress, rhythm, communicative competence, English language teachingAbstract
Pronunciation and intonation are essential components of successful spoken communication in English. While pronunciation focuses primarily on the accurate production of individual sounds, intonation concerns the variation of pitch across spoken language and contributes significantly to meaning, emotion, emphasis, and communicative intention. In many English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms, pronunciation and intonation are sometimes treated as secondary aspects of language learning because teachers tend to prioritize grammar, vocabulary, reading, and writing. However, insufficient attention to these features can negatively affect learners’ speaking fluency and comprehensibility. This article examines the importance of integrating pronunciation and intonation instruction into EFL classrooms. It discusses common difficulties faced by learners, effective classroom techniques, the role of communicative activities and technology, and the benefits of combining segmental and suprasegmental instruction. The article argues that systematic pronunciation and intonation practice can improve learners’ intelligibility, confidence, fluency, and overall communicative competence.
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