Iraqi EFL University learners' performance in using the sound \r\

Abstract EN

This study investigates the problem of Iraqi EFL university learners in using the sound /r/ as it is pronounced by American and British accents The present study aims at clarifying the sound /r/ in use, creating a good suitable atmosphere for good pronunciation inside class, and enabling the learners to distinguish between native speakers from those from other accents.

In order to achieve the aims of the present study, the following hypotheses have been postulated: (1) Iraqi EFL learners often choose the wrong transcription of letter /r/ in words that given to them.(2) The mispronounce of the sound /r/.

(3) Those learners do not distinguish sound /r /in American and British pronunciation.

The researchers adopt the following procedures (1) Presenting a theoretical background of sound /r/.

(2) Identifying the kind of sound /r/ in both American and British Accents.(3) Submitting the students to a test and (4) Analyzing the results of the test.

Data analysis has revealed that Iraqi EFL University learners tend to be at the production level are considerably less than those in recognition level.

The errors committed by the subjects are attributed to the following factors: 1.

Failure to transcribe sound /r/ (22.7%).

2.

Inability to give the accurate transcription of English vowels (15.9 %).

3.

Inability to give the accurate transcription of long vowels under the influence of sound /r/ (13.6 %).

4.

Giving no response (9.5 %).