PRACTICE 1

After 1st spiral.

Tones.

     While listening to the words and phrases already given, you have probably noticed that Thai seems to be sung, for each syllable has its own definite pitch. These differences in pitch or tone are just as important in Thai as the consonants (sounds like p or b or s or m) and vowels (sounds like i or a or u). However, you will find that the tones are not difficult to produce if you will imitate your Guide or the records as exactly as possible.
     The little marks over the vowel letters a, e, ɛ, ə, i, o, ɔ, u, and ʉ are put there to remind you of the proper tone. Thus a small upside down caret (    ̌  ) over a vowel stands for a rising tone. Listen to the Guide, and imitate him carefully.

[up][Note]

PRACTICE 2

After 2nd spiral.

[up][Note]

PRACTICE 3

After 3rd spiral.

[up][Note]

PRACTICE 4

After 4th spiral.

[up][Note]

PRACTICE 5

Record 2A, after 5th spiral.

[up][Note]

PRACTICE 6

Record 2A, after 6th spiral.

Long and short vowels.

     You have probably noticed by now that in Thai some vowels seem to be longer in duration than other vowels. This is an important distinction to make in Thai, and the vowels which are of brief duration are called short vowels while those which are of longer duration are called long vowels. In the Aids to Listening, long vowels are indicated by a doubling of the vowel, thus: dii 'to be good.' Short vowels are indicated by a single vowel.
     The practices below will help you hear and pronounce long and short vowels. Listen carefully while the speaker pronounces the word, and try to imitate the speech as accurately as you can.

[up][Note]

PRACTICE 7

Record 2A, after 7th spiral.

[up][Note]