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FLAM is a program here at HCMC that is designed to help people with English
as a second language modify their accent and improve their pronunciation
of American English. It also helps them adjust their speech to the needs
of the listener and speak confidently in front of groups. FLAM focuses
on pronunciation and speaking skills. It is not an English Language course.
Participants must have basic English language understanding and speaking
skills first.
At HCMC, a speech-language pathologist evaluates pronunciation and communication
skills. The person is coached in the sounds and rhythms of English during
class, with individual practice outside of the sessions continuing with
a set of learning materials (audiotapes or CD-ROM and books). The course
often involves public speaking practice as well.
The FLAM course is offered in two formats: Group and Individual. The Group
course consists of three or more people and is two hours weekly for 13
weeks. The Individual course is one-on-one tutoring one hour weekly for
8 weeks. The session times are flexible to account for clients' busy schedules.
After completing the course, people are on their way to independent practice
to continue modifying their accent and making their speech easy to understand
in a variety of situations.
General tips for clear speech that will help people understand you better:
- Speak slowly
- Pause slightly between words
- Overarticulate your sounds,
especially the sounds at the ends of words
- Rephrase your statement if
someone does not understand you
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