The book "The Practical Study of Languages; A Guide for Teachers and Learners" by Henry Sweet is a comprehensive guide that delves into the practical and theoretical aspects of language study.
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| The Practical Study of Languages |
The author emphasizes the necessity of understanding general principles in language learning and discusses the importance of distinguishing between good and bad methods of language instruction.
In the first chapter, Sweet explores the field of phonetics, highlighting its significance in language study. He argues that phonetics is not a new concept but rather an essential component of language learning. The author debunks the fallacy of imitation and emphasizes the importance of understanding the organic and acoustic methods of studying sounds. He also discusses the isolation of sounds, the analysis of sound formation, and the process of deducing unfamiliar sounds from familiar ones.
Chapter two focuses on phonetic notation, addressing the issue of unphonetic spelling and advocating for a more accurate transcription of sounds. Sweet introduces the concept of nomic spelling and discusses the relationship between nomic and phonetic spelling.
He suggests remedies for improving phonetic notation, such as the use of additional marks and letters, and outlines the principles of phonetic notation. The author also emphasizes the importance of establishing a national and international basis for phonetic spelling.
Overall, "The Practical Study of Languages" provides valuable insights and practical advice for both language teachers and learners. By emphasizing the importance of phonetics and phonetic notation, Henry Sweet offers a comprehensive guide that can help individuals improve their language skills and understanding.
