SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES BETWEEN INDONESIAN AND ENGLISH PHONOLOGY: IMPLICATIONS IN TEACING ENGLISH PHONOLOGY TO STUDENTS

Abstract

This research describes the phonological comparison between Indonesian and English, both the similarities and differences, as well as the implications for language teaching and learning. This research uses contrastive analysis. The result analysis shows that both Indonesian and English exhibit notable similarities and differences in their phonology, influencing language acquisition and communication for learners. While they both utilize the Latin alphabet and share identical letters, aiding in written comprehension, their phoneme systems differ. Indonesian has a simpler system with fewer vowel phonemes, whereas English presents a wider range, including long and short phonemes. Pronunciation patterns in English are more intricate, often varying based on word position, while Indonesian maintains a more straightforward approach. Additionally, English has more exceptions to spelling rules, contributing to its complexity compared to Indonesian. Differences in accent, intonation, and word stress patterns further distinguish the two languages. English speakers may exhibit distinct accents and intonation, impacting pronunciation. The differences in language structure between Indonesian and English also contribute to their phonological differences. Indonesian has a simpler structure than English, which also influences the arrangement and pronunciation of sounds in the language. Understanding these disparities is crucial for learners to navigate the nuances of each language effectively. Despite these differences, the shared phonological foundations offer significant advantages for learners, facilitating proficiency in both Indonesian and English phonology. Effective teaching of English phonology for Indonesian students involves addressing both similarities and differences between the two languages. Teachers should raise awareness of shared phonological features like the Latin alphabet and common consonants/vowels, while also focusing on unique English concepts such as long and short vowels and complex spelling patterns. Specific exercises, a structural approach, contextual learning, technology integration, drills, and relevant materials enhance phonological skills development.