Pronouncing Unstressed Words
We've already talked about how stressing certain, important words ("content" words) in every sentence helps you understand--and speak--English more clearly and naturally. (We've Got Rhythm)
First, the vowels in unstressed syllables are usually pronounced the same (the schwa sound.)
Next, the pronunciation of the unstressed words can change, in order to maintain the rhythm of a sentence. Usually, these words are articles (a, the), conjunctions (and, or) and prepositions (to, of).
Also, sometimes, in fast speech, the consonant sound after a vowel may not be pronounced. For example, "and" often sounds like "an" or "n". For example, "A burger 'n' fries, please."
(This works with "of" when the word following it starts with a consonant (e.g. "I'd like a piece uh pie.") But when it starts with a verb, the "f" is pronounced (e.g. "Would you like a piece of apple pie?")
Finally, the vowel sounds in "to" and "the" are different when the words following them begin with a vowel. (e.g. "I'll have the (thee) apple pie." or "I want to (too)eat cake.")
I have noticed in my classes that students who understand and say sentences with the correct rhythm find difficult sounds easier to say.
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