Presentation

Can Pepé Le Pew Help? Stereotypical Accent and French Pronunciation Learning

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Abstract

This study examines the impact of stereotypical accent-based training on the acquisition of second language (L2) French pronunciation. Research suggests that L2 accent imitation in the native language (L1) benefits L2 pronunciation acquisition (e.g., Everitt, 2015; Rojczyk, Porzuczek & Bergier, 2013). This study seeks to contribute to the research in this emerging pedagogical approach and reports on its benefits for the pronunciation improvement of /ʁ/ in L2 French. Over three weeks, eleven American students received training in select characteristics of French accent and practiced their pronunciation by imitating models in three experimental groups: one in which the models spoke English with a stereotypical French accent (n=4), another where they spoke it with an authentic (i.e., non-stereotypical) French accent (n=4), and a third one modeled by native speakers of French speaking French (n=3). Students were recorded reading texts and describing pictures before and after practice. Findings from French native speaker ratings indicate no significant pronunciation improvement of French /ʁ/. Results are discussed in terms of length of training and number of features involved.

How to Cite:

Ruellot, V., (2017) “Can Pepé Le Pew Help? Stereotypical Accent and French Pronunciation Learning”, Pronunciation in Second Language Learning and Teaching Proceedings 9(1).