Rhythm Groups
Stressed Syllables
In sentences you hear stressed syllables and words together with unstressed syllables. The alternating pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables is called rhythm.
Listen to and repeat the sentences. Tap your pencil on the desk for each stressed syllable or word.
It's time to leave for the show.
We need some bread from the store.
Be sure to call when you get there.
The car is in need of repair.
Unstressed Syllables
Now listen for the unstressed syllables. The vowels in unstressed syllables sound like /ə/ or /I/.
They had lots of time but little money.
A storm will come later today.
He will go out to eat tomorrow.
Rhythm Groups
In longer sentences, speakers say words in rhythm groups. There are very short pauses between rhythm groups.
Listen to these sentences marked in rhythm groups.
The store will be open / from nine to ten.
The rent is due / at the end of the month.
I need some more time / to finish the exercise.
His lecture on oceans / was easy to understand.
How many stressed syllables are in each rhythm group? ______
How many unstressed syllables do you find in each rhythm group? _____
Now listen again and repeat the sentences. Say the words in rhythm groups. Pronounce the stressed syllables high, long and loud. Pronounce the unstressed syllables low, short, and quiet.
Read Aloud
Here are some long sentences. Listen and practice reading them in rhythm.
1. You'll find a grocery store / a block down the street.
2. The date of the test / will be announced in class.
3. We were best friends / during middle school and high school.
4. When I came in the room / Jen was on the phone/ talking to her mother.
5. I'm reading a book / about the effects of the war / on soldiers who have returned home.
6. Please leave your name and number / and I'll call you back / as soon as I'm able.
Now you: Rhythm Groups Practice
Download the following worksheet on Rhythm Groups. Click below to hear some long sentences. Put a line (/) between the rhythm groups that you hear. After you mark the rhythm groups. submit the worksheet in CE6 assignments AND record the sentences in the Rhythm Groups voice board.