What is the IPA chart and why should English teachers learn it?
The IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) chart is a standard set of symbols for speech sounds, maintained by the International Phonetic Association, which created the alphabet in the late 1880s. Each symbol stands for one sound, whatever the spelling. English teachers use it to show pronunciation clearly, read dictionary transcriptions, and teach sounds that English spelling hides.
What this means in practice
English has about 44 sounds in common teaching models but only 26 letters, so spelling is an unreliable guide. The IPA solves that.
How the IPA helps in class
- shows the difference between similar words: /ʃɪp/ 'ship' and /ʃiːp/ 'sheep'
- lets learners use dictionary pronunciations independently
- makes silent letters and irregular spellings visible
- helps you diagnose exactly which sound a learner is changing
Where to start
Start with the consonants, since most symbols look like ordinary letters. Then learn the short and long vowels, then the diphthongs. Practise by transcribing simple words and checking them in a learner's dictionary.
British and American models
Dictionaries show British or American pronunciations, and the vowel symbols differ slightly. Choose one model for teaching and be consistent; learners in India commonly meet British models in textbooks.
Common IPA symbols for English teachers
- /ʃ/ as in 'ship', /tʃ/ as in 'chip', /ʒ/ as in 'measure'
- /θ/ as in 'think', /ð/ as in 'this'
- /ə/ the schwa, as in 'about'
- /æ/ as in 'cat', /e/ as in 'bet'
- /ɪ/ as in 'sit', /iː/ as in 'seat'
Practical next steps
- Learn the consonant symbols first.
- Learn the short and long vowel symbols.
- Learn the diphthongs.
- Transcribe ten common words a day.
- Teach learners three or four symbols at a time, linked to problem sounds.
What to keep in mind
You do not need to teach young learners the whole chart. Use symbols selectively where they help.
Common follow-up questions
How many sounds are there in English?
Commonly taught models of English have around 44 sounds: about 24 consonants and 20 vowel sounds including diphthongs.
Who created the IPA?
The International Phonetic Association, founded in 1886, developed the IPA and still maintains it.
Should I teach the IPA to young learners?
Usually not the full chart. Use a few symbols with older learners, and rely on modelling, listening and phonics with young children.
Related course
Teaching Phonetics Course
Five modules of phonetics and phonology for the classroom: speech organs, vowels, consonants, articulation, word stress, intonation, and weak and strong forms.
₹9,000 + 18% GST · USD 130 international
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