As We Speak, March 2025
Send submissions for the next issue by 15 May 2025!
If you are interested in submitting an article, book review, or teaching tip for As We Speak, please read the Call for Submissions at the end of this issue for more information.
Letter from the Chair
Letter from the Editors
Agata Guskaroska, Iowa State University, Iowa, USA
Raju Dhuli, Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar, India
Insights On Supporting ITAIS with Oral Language Development
Lily Compton, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
In our conversation with Dr. Lily Compton of Iowa State University, we explore current practices for developing oral communication skills for International Teaching Assistants. Dr. Compton shares insights on support resources and introduces a newly released free e-book.
Teaching the Pharyngeal ’Ayn in Arabic: A Practical Guide for L1 English Speakers
Mahdi Duris, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
‘Ali or Ali? The unique ʿAyn (ع) poses a persistent challenge for English-speaking learners of Arabic. This article outlines an integrated approach to teaching the challenging Arabic consonant ʿAyn (ع) to L1 English speakers. Emphasizing listening discrimination and controlled production, the guide details training techniques using minimal pairs and controlled repetition drills that address the common tendency of substituting ʿAyn with the much easier and familiar glottal stop Hamza (ء).
Practical Tips for Managing Speaking Anxiety in Online Test Preparation Classrooms
Andrias Susanto, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
This study investigates speaking anxiety in online language classes. The research presents effective strategies to help students overcome this common barrier to language acquisition and improve their performance in virtual learning environments.
Addressing Pronunciation Challenges for International Students
Erik Goodale, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
Drawing from his experience as a speaking consultant at Iowa State University's Center for Communication Excellence, Dr. Erik Goodale shares insights into addressing lesser-discussed yet persistent pronunciation challenges faced by international graduate students. His article outlines targeted strategies that have proven successful in his practice.