An Introduction to English Phonology by April M. S. McMahon
Book Description
An Introduction to English Phonology introduces undergraduates to the basic tools and concepts necessary for the description of English phonological systems and processes. April McMahon considers the justification for analytical tools like the International Phonestic Alphabet and the difference between sounds and spellings, so that students understand the rationale for what they are learning. The crucial idea of phonological contrast is introduced very early, with subsequent chapters covering the articulatory description of vowels and consonants; variant realisations of vowels and consonants in different contexts; and prosodic concepts, notably syllables and stress. Throughout the book, there is emphasis on the range of variation to be found in modern English phonology, with examples taken not only from Standard Southern British English and General American, but also New Zealand English, Scottish Standard English and Singaporean English.