Articulation
Stress and Intonation
Social Language and Phrasal Verbs
Random American Trivia
Figurative Language
100

This vowel is known as the lazy vowel. It is the vowel in every unstressed syllable, such as the first syllable of "toDAY"

What is a schwa?

100

This intonation pattern is used when asking a yes-no question.

What is rising intonation?

100

This phrasal verb is used when one is about to start leaving.

What is "head out"?

100

This American "holiday" is celebrated in February and marks the end of the professional football season with a championship game. 

What is the Super Bowl?

100

The meaning of the figurative language phrase "on the ball"

What is "To be alert, quick to understand, and efficient"?

200

These sounds are represented by one letter in Korean, based on the position of the letter in the word. However, in English, these sounds are two distinct phonemes.

What are /r/ and /l/?

200

English syllables are stressed by increasing _____, _____, and ______

What are pitch, volume, and time?

200

This is a more polite way to say that you don't like someone's idea.

What is "that's an interesting idea, but..."

200

While it began as a religious feast day, this February holiday is now a major commercial event where Americans spend over $20 billion on cards, flowers, and heart-shaped chocolates.

What is Valentine's Day?

200

Feeling stressed by responsibilities or expectations. (2 words)

What is "under pressure"?

300

This English consonant sound is made with the tongue tip placed in between the top and bottom teeth.

What is "th"?

300

This intonation pattern is used when asking a wh-question.

What is rise-fall intonation?

300

This phrasal verb is used when a plan fails or doesn't happen. 

What is "fall through"?

300

If you are attending a party that involves wearing masks, catching purple and gold beads, and eating King's Cake, you are likely celebrating this holiday.

What is Mardi Gras?

300

The meaning of the figurative language phrase "have a lot on my plate"

What is "being very busy and/or having many responsibilities"

400

This English consonant sound sometimes sounds like a "d" when it's in between vowels.

What is "t"?

400

The following phrase follows what intonation pattern:

"I attend the University of Missouri."

What is falling intonation?

400

This is an essential part of an American greeting, usually said right after the actual "hello"

What is "how are you"? (or some variation)

400

This Midwestern city is famous for its arch, which is known as the "Gateway to the West."

What is St. Louis?

400

To be completely and deeply in love. It means you're crazy about someone! (3 words)

What is a "head over heels"?

500

This English vowel sound is made with the tongue up high and at the front of the mouth. It is the highest and most forward vowel. Think of the vowel quadrangle!

What is "/i/"?

500

In a typical sentence, function words are usually _______ (stressed or unstressed)

What is unstressed?

500

This is the first essential part of the "soft no."

What is the "positive buffer"?

(e.g., "I'd love to," "That sounds great, but...")

500

This sport, often called "America's Pastime," is the oldest professional sport here.

What is baseball?

500

To show your emotions openly rather than keeping them hidden. (6 words)

What is "wear your heart on your sleeve"?

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