Sunday, February 13, 2022

Heteronyms - Part 2

So what exactly is a heteronym? 
In English, there are words that have the same spelling but different meanings. These are called homographs. If homographs are pronounced differently, they are called heteronyms. In heteronyms, the part of speech, along with the meaning, changes based on where the stress is placed: OBject / obJECT
Stressing the right syllable of heteronyms is crucial, and yet challenging, for nonnative speakers. Nonnative speakers’ awareness of the appropriate stress position can be increased through instruction.
In November 2014, I presented a poster with activities and discussed heteronyms at the CATESOL OC Chapter Workshop Fall 2014. If you work with English learners and would like a copy of my handout, which includes activities and useful links, please email me and mention "heteronyms" in the subject line: ravaghi@gmail.com