Many people who speak English as a second
language feel uncomfortable making contractions. But to really sound
natural in English, it's important to say these words correctly. Can
you do a good job?
Listen to these...
I am = I'm /aim/
you are = you're /yur/
he is = he's /heez/
she is = she's /sheez/
we are = we're /weer/
they are = they're /ther/
And now these...
I will = I'll /ail/ (also sounds like aisle)
you will = you'll /yul/
he will = he'll /hil/ or /heel/
she will = she'll /shil/ or /sheel/
we will = we'll /wil/ or /weel/ (also sounds like wheel)
they will = they'll /thel/
Please note: it is more common to use full words when we write and use contractions when speaking.
Check Your Understanding
Listen to the following sentences. Check the words you hear.
1. ___ happy to see you.
A. I am
B. I'm
2. I hope ___ come.
A. she will
B. she'll
3. ___ are over there.
A. They are
B. They're
4. ___ be right back.
A. She will
B. She'll
5. I think ___ at school.
A. he is
B. he's
