Instruction of English Stress Patterns: Using Rap Music Method to Teach Word and Sentence Stress

Many English language learners who have attained advanced English proficiency levels are still having difficulty in communicating, due to low intelligibility. Word and sentence stress are components that contribute greatly to intelligibility. This study was designed to explore the effectiveness of teaching English word and sentence stress patterns through the recitation of rap music and related activities. Six secondary English language learners from various primary language backgrounds voluntarily participated in a four-week intensive summer pronunciation course. Appropriate allocation of word and sentence stress was measured in speech samples obtained before and after completion of the course. The results of this study indicate improvement in stress placement by the end of the four weeks. The students also reported substantial gains in their confidence levels when communicating with others. The study includes specific methodology that may be useful and easily incorporated into programs with pre-set curricula and assessments.