English Language Writing Skills

By Danso Kwasi Nti Samuel (DAS). Study the complete course source, examine every model and practise alongside Professor Jarvis.

Course printed page 18 PDF page 24 of 505

For tables, matching columns, IPA and original formatting, open the course PDF above.

Producing Consonant Sounds in Context (Plosives)

Plosives are consonant sounds produced when the airflow is stopped completely for a brief

moment before being released, creating a burst of sound.

There are six plosives in English: /p/, /b/, /t/, /d/, /k/, and /g/.

/p/ is a voiceless plosive produced by stopping the airflow with both lips and then releasing

it.

 Examples: pat, pen, cup

/t/ is a voiceless plosive produced by stopping the airflow at the alveolar ridge (the bumpy

area behind the upper front teeth).

Examples: top, cat, but

/g/ is a voiced plosive produced by stopping the airflow at the back of the mouth with the

tongue against the soft palate (velum).

Examples: goat, bag, dog

Distinguishing Between Voiced and Voiceless Plosives in Context (e.g., /b/ and

/p/)

Voiced plosives involve vocal cord vibration when the plosive sound is

produced.

/b/ is voiced, produced with both lips.

  Examples: bat, cab, rub

/d/ is voiced, produced at the alveolar ridge.

 Examples: dog, mad, sad