17. Minimal Pairs
• Your Turn!
• In pairs, make a list of minimal pairs and choose
one word of each MP to say to your partner, if
he/she lifts up the correct image, put a checkmark
next to it. Repeat it until all the words have a
checkmark.
• Then switch roles.
Remember, minimal pairs are “Pairs of words which
differ in only one sound.”
• They do not have to rhyme.
Editor's Notes
Teacher reads the definition of minimal pairs to the class and asks students if they are familiar with the words in the definition: minimal/minimum, pairs, differ/different. Once students are comfortable with the definition, the teacher can begin the Power Point presentation.
Teacher reads the words aloud and the students repeat after him/her. After reading the words, the teacher clicks on the board or uses the mouse to view the photos/graphics to provide visual aids to those students requiring additional support.
Some ELL students may not be familiar with the word grin and it is an opportunity to introduce a new vocabulary word.
Teacher will clarify any questions from students regarding minimal pairs, circulate around the room, checking on student progress and providing positive feedback.