Phonemic Systems of Eggon and English: Implications for the Teaching and Learning of English Pronunciation by Eggon learners of English

Abstract: The extant literature has shown that a language learner's L1 system has a
profound influence on his L2. Such influences can be positive or negative and are
noticeable either in the form of transfer or interference. L1 influence on L2 learning
can cut across various levels of language use including phonology, morphology,
syntax and indeed semantics. It is 'transfer' when the L1 system enhances the learning
of the target language. Interference results, however, when the L1 system, impedes
L2 learning. This present study seeks to examine the phonemic systems of Eggon and
English with a view to identifying the points of similarities and areas of differences in
the phonemic systems of the two languages and on the basis of this, identify areas of
learning difficulty in the second language learning of English by Eggon speakers and
what can be done to overcome the learning difficulties. Our findings revealed that
there are so many areas of similarities in the sound systems of the two languages.
These will boast the learning of English phonetics by Eggon speakers. There are,
however, areas of marked differences that may require the L2 English teacher's
attention if the student has proper mastery of the English sound system.