Speech Writing Topic: Review on Consonant Sounds and Vowel Contrast /ia/ and /ea/ - JSS2 English language Lesson Note

Review of Consonant Sounds:
Consonant sounds are the building blocks of words. They are produced by obstructing the airflow in some way using the lips, tongue, or teeth. Here are some examples:

/b/ in "bat": The lips come together to briefly stop the airflow, creating the /b/ sound.
/s/ in "sun": The tongue is placed close to the roof of the mouth, allowing air to flow through with a hissing sound.
/tʃ/ in "cheese": The tongue is pressed against the roof of the mouth, creating a brief stop followed by a release of air, producing the /tʃ/ sound.
Consonant sounds help in pronunciation by providing clarity and distinguishing one word from another. For example, the difference between "bat" and "cat" lies in the initial consonant sound (/b/ versus /k/), which changes the meaning of the word entirely.
Consonants:
Consonants are the sounds that come from closing or partially closing your mouth. They help shape the sounds of words and make them easier to understand. For example, think about the letter "b" in "bat" or the letter "s" in "sun." Each consonant has its own unique sound, and when combined, they create the words we use every day.
Vowel Contrast: 
Vowels are the sounds made by opening your mouth without any obstruction. They add melody and flavor to words. Today, we'll focus on the /ia/ and /ea/ sounds.
/ia/ Sound:
The /ia/ sound is often found in words like "sheer," "cheer," and "tier." Notice how your mouth forms a slightly closed position when saying these words. This sound is sharp and crisp, adding a lively touch to the words.

/ea/ Sound:
On the other hand, the /ea/ sound is present in words like "fear," "bear," and "tear." When pronouncing these words, your mouth forms a slightly open position. This sound is softer and more drawn-out compared to the /ia/ sound. 

Contrast of /ia/ and /ea/ Sounds:

let's explore the contrast between the /ia/ and /ea/ vowel sounds.

/ia/ Sound Words:
"sheer"
"share"
"tier"
/ea/ Sound Words:
"fear"
"tear"
"bear"
 The contrast between /ia/ and /ea/ sounds can change the meanings of words. For example, "sheer" and "tear" have different meanings and evoke different images, in part because of the vowel sound they contain.