The Shadowing Method | HOME | Practice
Explanation
It’s quite a simple concept - you listen to a model video or audio of someone speaking, and you repeat what they say in real time. The idea is that you repeat, word for word, sound for sound, what you hear, with as little delay as possible.
Listen
Before you start shadowing, listen to the audio at least once to get used to the speaker’s accent, rhythm and intonation. You don't need to understand every word, but if it's too fast or complex, slow down the speech with the Playback Speed control. You can choose 1X (normal speed), 0.75X (75%), 0.50X, etc.
Practice shadowing
It can be challenging to begin with, but try to repeat what the speaker says as quickly and as accurately as possible.
Start by doing 20-30 seconds and if you get stuck, just stop the audio and start again.
Don't worry about the meaning. You're just trying to mimic the speaker's voice.
Record yourself
Once you’ve practiced and you feel more confident, you can try recording yourself.
Listen to the audio through headphones and record your voice using a computer or smartphone.
Feedback
Listen back to the recordings and compare your speech to the original audio. Modify any part of your speech so that it sounds closer to the original sound track.
Recycle
Repeat the process until you feel comfortable with the results. It doesn't have to be perfect, but make your best effort to sound clear.
Remember
Vowel sounds are very varied. Just shadow the sounds as precisely as you hear them. Ignore the alphabet.
Watch proper syllabication to maintain a good rhythm. Proper rhythm produces very clear English.
Review The Stair Speech Method if in doubt.
Be very patient to yourself. Speaking will definitely improve, but it needs plenty of practice.
This site is being developed and maintained by Art Vazquez
Last update: May, 2022
