Accent Imitation on the L1 as a task to improve L2 pronunciation

Abstract

Three groups of Spanish/Catalan L1 adolescent learners of English as a foreign language took part in the present study. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of accent imitation training in the L1 on L2 Voice Onset Time (VOT) perception and production. One experimental group underwent accent imitation training on their L1 and another experimental group received L2 training. A control group did not receive any training. Results showed that both training groups improved in their English VOT perception and production, but the L1 accent imitation group saw wider benefits than the L2 training group. These results imply that L2 VOT perception and production can be modified after relatively little training, and that accent imitation on the L1 is an effective training methodology.