π― /l/ (law) vs /r/ (run)
These consonant sounds differ in tongue position and vibration pattern.
/l/
/l/ Sound (law)
Continuous vibrating sound over the sides
Say /l/ with continuous vibrating sound
Over the sides of the tongue
like, relieve, mall
/r/
/r/ Sound (run)
Continuous vibrating sound
Say /r/ with a continuous vibrating sound
Tongue curved and pulled back
rent, march, fear
π
Tongue Position Demo
/l/ - Sides of Tongue
Tongue tip touches roof
Air flows over the sides
Continuous vibration on sides
Click to see the vibration
/r/ - Curved Tongue
Tongue curved and pulled back
No contact with roof of mouth
Continuous vibrating sound
Click to see the vibration
β οΈ Common Problems
If /l/ is replaced with /r/: the word "lock" sounds like "rock"
If /r/ is replaced with /l/: the word "grow" sounds like "glow"
π§ Position Practice
Listen to words with /l/ and identify the /l/ sound at the beginning, middle, or end!
Listen and Decide: Where is /l/?
π Practice Words
π― /l/ Words
fear
run
right
great
π L vs R Challenge
Listen to words beginning with /l/ or /r/. Identify the correct sound!
Choose: /l/ or /r/?
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1. light or right?
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2. lock or rock?
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3. led or red?
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4. long or rong?
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5. load or road?
π§ Listening Challenge
Listen carefully and identify which consonant sound you hear!
Click "Play" to hear a word