TKT Module 1 Language and Background to Language Learning Flashcards

Which of the following is a minimal pair demonstrating a phonemic contrast in English?

Answer: 'cat' and 'bat'

'cat' and 'bat' differ by only one phoneme (/k/ vs /b/) in the same position, making them a minimal pair that demonstrates a phonemic contrast.

In the word 'photography', where does the primary stress fall?

Answer: On the second syllable (-TOG-)

In 'photography', the primary stress falls on the second syllable: pho-TOG-ra-phy. This is a key feature of English word stress that learners must master.

Which term describes the way connected speech sounds link together, such as 'turn off' being pronounced 'tur-noff'?

Answer: Linking

Linking (or liaison) describes how a final consonant sound of one word connects to the initial vowel sound of the next word, as in 'turn off' → 'tur-noff'.

What is the function of a discourse marker such as 'however' in a text?

Answer: To signal a contrast or contradiction between ideas

'However' is a discourse marker that signals contrast or contradiction between two ideas or pieces of information, helping to organize and connect text coherently.

Which cohesive device is used in this sentence? 'Maria loves painting. She does it every day.'

Answer: Reference

'She' is a pronoun that refers back to 'Maria', making this an example of reference—a cohesive device that avoids repetition by using pronouns or other referring expressions.

In which register would you most likely find the greeting 'Dear Sir or Madam'?

Answer: Formal written communication

'Dear Sir or Madam' is a highly formal salutation used in formal written communication, such as business letters or official correspondence.

Which of the following best describes the language function of 'Could you possibly open the window?'

Answer: Making a polite request

'Could you possibly open the window?' is a polite request—the speaker is asking the listener to perform an action (opening the window) using an indirect, polite form.