1 · Pronunciation
Hear it, see it, say it
IELTS tip. In Speaking Part 3 you often talk about change, so you will say 'an increase' and 'to increase' many times, and the same stress pattern applies to many other words you use when you describe trends. Put the stress on the right syllable each time. Saying the sentence with natural stress is more important than saying one word perfectly.
How to make it
- Say the strong syllable longer, louder and a little higher.
- Say the weak syllable quickly with a relaxed tongue and mouth: /ə/ or /ɪ/.
- Move the strong syllable and keep the same speed: INcrease, then inCREASE.
- Say each pair in a short sentence so the rhythm helps you.
Say it after me
an INcrease /ˈɪŋkriːs/ (noun)
to inCREASE /ɪnˈkriːs/ (verb)
a REcord /ˈrekɔːd/ (noun)
to reCORD /rɪˈkɔːd/ (verb)
a PREsent /ˈpreznt/ (noun, a gift)
to preSENT /prɪˈzent/ (verb)
the PROduce /ˈprɒdjuːs/ (noun, fruit and vegetables)
to proDUCE /prəˈdjuːs/ (verb)
record, increase, present, live, lead, close, use, minute