Are minimal pairs too few to be used in pronunciation classes?

Abstract

In this contribution we address the usage of minimal pairs in L2 pronunciation classes. An informal survey with FL teachers of Italian and English revealed that minimal pairs are considered to be scant and difficult to find. We present here a tool (Minimal Pair Finder) that has been developed with the aim to support teachers and learners in pronunciation classes by providing quick access to several minimal pairs via a top-down approach. We describe how this tool can be consulted, how it has been implemented, and we show a sample teaching unit where students are asked to make use of it. Minimal Pair Finder reveals that minimal pairs are generally not too few to be used in pronunciation classes; however, we argue that L2 teachers should wisely choose minimal pairs for their classes based on the proficiency level of their students, by paying attention to parameters such as productivity and word frequency.