Who put sheep on the ship?

Wadjasay? American English Pronunciation Practice

This lesson is the first in a series on American English vowel sounds. It is primarily intended for Spanish speakers but won't harm anyone else. I promise!

Today's sounds are the [i] sound in fit, sit, or bit, and the [ee] sound in feet, seat, and beat.

Part One:

Let's start with a few sentences which include both sounds. I'll read each sentence two times, and then say each one two more times with a space after each one so you can repeat.

1) These shoes don't fit my feet. (2x)

Listen and repeat:

2) The dog bit the meat.

3) This is mint tea. Do you like it sweet? (Is it too minty?)

4) Children, please sit in your seats.
Part Two: Now let's practice sentences which only have the [i] sound:
I'll say the word first three times. Then I'll say the sentence twice, and then again twice with a pause so you can repeat.

1. This jacket doesn't fit. It's too small.
2. Please sit down.
3. Your dog bit me!
4. Can you give me a hint?
5. The tiger fell into a pit.
6. An inch is longer than a centimeter.
7. She lit the fire with a match.
8. Do you like mint tea?
9. Please come in.
10. He stuck me with a pin.

Part Three: Now let’s practice with the [ee] sound.

As before, I’ll say the key word three times. Then I'll say the sentence twice, and then twice more with a pause so you can repeat.

1. Your father has big feet!
2. She likes to keep her house neat.
3. He’s a terrible drummer. He can’t keep the beat.
4. There’s a hole in the seat of your pants.
5. Tonight I’m going to a ‘meet and greet’.
6. From the mountain top I can see all the way to the sea.
7. Please come in and make yourselves at home.
8. This is my brother, Pete.
9. He’s mixing concrete for the foundation.
10. “Never retreat!” shouted the general.

Part Four: Extra practice.

1. Mr. Jim Witt put the sheep on the ship.
2. The architect was holding a blueprint.
3. If you like, I can tint your hair purple.
4. He’s a terrible hypocrite.
5. I can’t work until I get a work permit.
6. The pilot climbed into the cockpit.
7. Do you want us to babysit?
8. The accountant sent me a spreadsheet.
9. His heartbeat was fast because of the heat.
10. She gave a great speech.

Coming in the next podcast: /ʊ/ vs. /u/, the sound in 'book' vs. the sound in 'boot'.

Intro & Outro Music: La Pompe Du Trompe by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

Support the show

You can now support my podcasts and classes:
Help Barry pay for podcast expenses--thank you!