Why Modify?

Corporate Programs

Individual & Group Programs

Training
	Assessment Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3

Feedback

We are eager to hear from you. Send us your comments and suggestions

Training Phase 1: The Foundation

Accurate pronunciation of American English vowel and consonant sounds and proficiency with American intonation patterns are the goals of Phase 1. Phase 1 also includes training on how to use the mouth muscles in a new way, effective breathing, and vocal projection and resonance. In addition, specific grammar skills will be trained, as needed.

Obtaining accuracy with pronunciation and intonation sets the foundation for your success. The Advance American Accent Training Phase 1 moves you toward confidence and clarity!

What can I expect during Phase 1 training sessions?

We will train you to produce the consonant and vowel sounds with which you have difficulty, and help you practice these sounds in increasingly more complex contexts (e.g, the sound itself, in words, in sentences, reading aloud, spontaneous speaking).

We will show you the difference between your intonation patterns and those of American English, teach the pitch and rhythm patterns of American English, and train you to produce word and sentence intonation patterns.

To maximize the effectiveness of training, we use specialized training methods and equipment. Training methods include guided instruction and practice with target skills; precise feedback to help you shape your performance; and development of self-monitoring skills. As we work toward your goals, you will use a variety of equipment to help you achieve your goals, including mouth diagrams and models, the original Advance American Accent Training practice CDs, and auditory feedback. Auditory feedback technology enables you to hear exactly how you sound as you speak, which builds your abilities to monitor your use of target pronunciation and intonation skills, and voice quality.

How does all of this impact my communication skills?

During Phase 1, you will begin to incorporate some of the skills you are training; however, accent modification is a process. Outside of training sessions, complete command of trained skills at this stage of training is not likely. In fact, you may even feel more self-conscious about how you are speaking, because you will gain a heightened awareness of potential speaking errors. This is entirely normal. As training progresses, this increased awareness will help you to use the skills that you learn during Phase 1. Most of the improvement in your communication skills will occur during Phase 2; however, the training you do in Phase 1 provides the necessary foundation for success. Your confidence level will increase as you notice the improvement in your speaking skills.

How often do sessions meet?

Sessions may be scheduled once, twice, or three times per week. Session length is determined at the beginning of training. Typical sessions lengths are 1.5 hours for individual clients, and 2 hours for group sessions.

How long does training take?

Length of training and rate of progress depend on various factors, including number of goals, commitment to outside training assignments, self-monitoring ability, and opportunities for communication in English outside of training. The following guidelines are based on training time that is typically required to make good progress.

Individual sessions	Phase 1	Phase 2	Total training
	once per week, 1.5 hour session 9 hours/6 weeks	once per week, 1.5 hour session 9 hours/6 weeks	18 hours/12 weeks
	twice per week, 1.5 hour session 9 hours/3 weeks	twice per week,1.5 hour session 9 hours/3 weeks	18 hours/6 weeks
Group sessions	once per week, 2 hour session 12 hours/6 weeks	once per week,2 hour session12 hours/6 weeks	24 hours/12 weeks
Group sessions	twice per week, 2 hour session 12 hours/3 weeks	twice per week,2 hour session12 hours/3 weeks	24 hours/6 weeks

Do I need to spend time doing outside assignments?

Spending time doing daily assignments will improve progress. In this phase of training, assignments that focus on the practice CDs will be provided. It is recommended that you spend approximately 20-30 minutes in daily practice.