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Volume 13 Number 3, Autumn 2016, Pages 162-246   


 http://dx.doi.org/10.18823/asiatefl.2016.13.3.1.162 PDF Download
   

Phonological Changes in Cantonese-English Code-Mixing for ESL Learners in Hong Kong and Their Attitudes Toward Code-Mixing

    Tzi Dong Ng & Hsueh Chu Chen


The purposes of this study were (a) to identify how ESL learners make phonological changes inEnglish
words in a code-mixing context; and (b) to examine ESL learners' attitudes toward Cantonese-accented
English and code-mixing in the classroom setting. Two groups of learners with high proficiency (HP)
and mid-level proficiency (MP) were recruited to participate in the research. A specially designed codemixed script, an English translated version, and a list of isolated English words served as the tasks for collecting phonological data. A questionnaire survey was then used to examine participants' opinions on code-mixing and its effects on pronunciation learning. The results showed that HP and MP learners pronounced numerous words similarly in a Cantonese-accented manner; however, MP learners were less likely to switch back to the correct pronunciation when the context of code-mixing was changed to pure English or when given a list of isolated English words. The survey results found that MP learners tended to be slightly more positive toward Cantonese-accented English and the use of a mixed code in English as a medium of instruction classrooms. Nonetheless, the use of code-mixing was less preferred in English lessons for learners of both groups. More HP learners considered Cantonese-accented English as a symbol of identity as Hongkongers than MP learners.

Keywords: pronunciation learning, language attitude, Hong Kong English, second language phonology