Although pronunciation is one of the most important factors in language learning, and though pronunciation skill can make all the difference in intelligibility and clarity for language learner outcomes, pronunciation skills are often overlooked in contemporary language education classes. And while in recent years, research on the subject of second language (L2) pronunciation has increased dramatically and leading theory on the best pedagogical methods for incorporating pronunciation into the language classroom has evolved rapidly, many language teachers continue to face challenges and struggles in incorporating pronunciation into their classrooms.

Through 15 essays authored by leading and emerging scholars in the field of L2 pronunciation, Second Language Pronunciation sets out to bridge the gap between the growing body of research and practical applications on this research to the classroom. Extending beyond the standard methods of pronunciation instruction, the essays in this book consider such new methods as High Variability Phonetic Training, discourse-based teaching, communicative classrooms, and technology-based methods. With a focus on bringing theory to bear upon practical questions in teaching, each chapter follows a standard format, moving from critical issues to pedagogical implications to practical resources for pedagogy and research.

The first book of its kind, Second Language Pronunciation offers an unprecedented overview of the leading thinking in pronunciation as a part of L2 teaching, while also demonstrating clear, applicable connections to classroom practice. It addresses questions that will be of interest to scholars, administrators, teachers, and teachers-in-training who recognize that an increased focus on pronunciation in the teaching of language is essential to long-term language learner success.

John Levis is Professor of English and Applied Linguistics at Iowa State University, USA. He is a veteran ESL teacher, and his research is focused on second language acquisition, especially second language pronunciation.

Tracey Derwing is Professor Emeritus of TESL in the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Alberta, Canada and an Adjunct Professor at Simon Fraser University. She focuses her research on L2 pronunciation and investigates the elements of successful social integration amongst immigrants and refugees.

Sinem Sonsaat-Hegelheimer is Assistant Professor at Iowa State University, USA. Her research is focused on pronunciation teaching, computer-assisted language learning, and teaching materials evaluation.