How to Learn the English Letters

The Roman alphabet used in the English language consists of 26 relatively simple characters. Compared to Chinese writing, which contains thousands of elaborate characters, or alphabets such as Devanagari script with ornate letters, Roman letters are easy for students to learn and identify on sight. Pronouncing the letters is the greatest challenge for most foreign language speakers, since the Roman alphabet contains sounds that don't exist in all languages.

Things You'll Need

  • Flash cards
  • Audio tapes/CDs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Print out or copy a page with the entire alphabet typed or neatly written in alphabetical order. You should keep this sheet to use for your own reference. The printout should include upper and lowercase block letters. Print or copy a second, similar printout of cursive letters so you can identify script as well as typing.

    • 2

      Recite the alphabet and alphabet sounds with your teacher. It's best to have a teacher or native speaker help you practice, so he can give feedback on your pronunciation. After a native speaker says a letter of the alphabet and sounds it out (e.g. "A," "ahh"), clearly enunciate the letter and its sound as best you can. Keep in mind that some alphabet sounds don't exist in other languages. For example, "f," "v," "s," "d," "r" and "l" sounds don't exist in Japanese. Slow down when pronouncing these letters, and repeat them a few times, asking your teacher for feedback.

    • 3

      Listen to a tape, CD or Internet link with someone clearly, slowly speaking the alphabet. This way you can practice alone at home when your teacher is unavailable.

    • 4

      Work on alphabet exercises to familiarize yourself with written and spoken letters. Make flash cards, copy letters multiple times or do some computer exercises. Many university language departments have English as a Second Language resources on their websites.

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