FUNDAMENTALS OF LISTENING & SPEAKING
During our final class, some of my classmates wrote
thank you notes to Miss Sakina in phonetics.
ABOUT MY LECTURER
My first impression of Miss Sakina is that she was very pretty (still is). Then, she started to talk and I realized how eloquent she was in speaking. Her choice of words were very precise and professional. Her way of delivering a message or a lecture was awe-inspiring. I admire her.
What do I think about the course?
When we were first introduced to the Phonetic Chart, my mind turned blank. Was I supposed to learn a new language? Then, I realized these were the same characters that popped up when I searched for definitions on Google. "Ah, these were the words I tried to pronounce". I honestly thought it was Greek.
You see, I like guessing things. So, when it comes to words, I also like guessing how it sounds. But, phonetics? I have an easy time saying or transcribing it, but I do not have an easy time translating normal words into its International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) form. It is so hard for me to distinguish what is the actual pronunciation from what sounds right in my head. That is where my guessing skill brings me to my downfall. I have always leaned towards the American pronunciation of words, thus, this made me more than puzzled. How was I supposed to know that British people do not pronounce their 'R's that often?
Nonetheless, I am extremely grateful that Miss Sakina guided us throughout it all. I remember our physical classes in Puncak Alam. The room was cold but I managed to pay attention to her every single word. She taught us how to pronounce words correctly, the different stresses on each words, intonation and what not. Every thing that helps her to become an eloquent speaker, she passed it on to us. I guess, the only thing that we have to work on ourselves is our confidence and knowledge.
Listening and Speaking may sound easy (just like reading was), but it is extremely difficult to master. However, nothing is impossible right? With the right amount of experience and practice, one is able to speak and listen efficiently. I think this course consists of all the different aspects a person needs to work on before they are able to persuade or amaze anyone with their speech. Even the Listening test requires for our full attention to understand what people are saying or talking about AND how we comprehend it. These are extremely useful life skills.
ASSESSMENT
My first oral task went smoothly, but I could not achieve that without Aya, Alisha and Iera. They are great people with great minds. The picture above on the left was after we finished our oral task. The second picture on the right is a screenshot from my Demonstrative speech. I talked about the Morse Code and how we can signal it during emergencies. I have a learned a lot from both, and received great experience.
Final thoughts?
To Miss Sakina : Thank you for being passionate in teaching us how to speak professionally and listen carefully.
To TSL034 : Thank you for reminding me that "just guessing" will not cut it and to pay attention to details.
