Keep everything except the target sound comparable
A minimal pair is useful because one sound distinction can change the word. Pick a contrast such as tu / tout and learn the meanings before recording. A pair of unrelated words can illustrate two sounds, but it gives you more changes to track.
First listen and identify which model you hear. Then say each word separately, keeping your recording setup and pace similar. Finally, alternate the words without looking at their spelling. If the order is always the same, you may be remembering the sequence instead of identifying the sound.
Use the vowel trainer to locate isolated targets and the u / ou guide for a concrete word contrast. Once the difference is stable in words, put each into a short phrase. Do not add several contrasts in the same attempt just to make the drill harder.
Mouth position and airflow
Keep the two words almost identical. Change only the target sound, then listen for whether the meaning changed.
Three examples to practise
| Round | French target |
|---|---|
| 1 | dessus / dessous |
| 2 | beau / bon |
| 3 | vu / vous |
Common mistakes and a correction
- Avoid choosing pairs that differ in too many ways.
- Avoid moving too quickly to sentences.
- Avoid ignoring the listening step.
Five-minute practice ladder
- Listen to pair A and pair B.
- Point to the one you hear.
- Say each word slowly.
- Mix the order.
- Use one word in a short sentence.