Foreign Accent Modification
(Pronunciation of English as a Second Language)

A comprehensive program to improve speaking skills in business, professional, and social situations

 
   

Accent modification (reduction) programs begin where conventional English as a Second Language courses end. Our program is based on more than 20 years of linguistic research and teaching, It is designed specifically to aid foreign-born individuals in improving their spoken English and to bridge the gap between formal English instruction and true American English proficiency.

Participants come from every profession:

physicians, accountants, actors, attorneys, college teachers, technical professionals, engineers, clergy, salespersons, supervisors, etc.

The average participant experiences at least a 50% improvement in pronunciation and usage of American English.

What To Expect:

  • An initial interview and a tape recording of student's speech
  • A completely individualized learning program based on a phonetic analysis of student's tape-recorded speech
  • A comprehensive set of practice exercises in a CD-ROM or cassette tape format
  • A training manual containing a personal speech analysis and scripts for the recorded practice materials
  • A personal Audio Reference tape and booklet of customized practice words which are especially important to the student.
  • Personal live instruction (14 hrs.)
  • A self-study program for continuing improvement at the end of the course

Individual or Small Group Instruction                                                                                                                                            


M.A.P.S.(TM)

WHAT IS M.A.P.S.?

M.A.P.S. (More Americanized Pronunciation and Speaking) is a program specifically designed for advanced ESL and/or Accent Reduction participants.

The program focuses on presentations with self, peer, and instructor correction in a workshop setting. Concentration is on grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary skills as well as on traditional presentation proficiency. Attention is also given to the correct use of American idioms and business language.

Facilitators are native speakers of American English with expertise in ESL, foreign accent reduction, and presentation skills.

How is M.A.P.S. different from other speaking programs?

Conventional public speaking/presentation skills groups address the fear of public speaking, how to create a better speech, and how to become a better presenter in English. They do not address the primary needs of non-native speakers of English: grammar, pronunciation, and correct usage of American idioms. Each M.A.P.S. group is customized to meet the needs of the specific group and incorporates speech pathology and ESL techniques.   ESL and Accent Reduction programs are not quick fixes; perfecting a language is on-going and achievable only through dedication and guided practice.


For more information on these programs, click here .