Experiencing the Empty Chart—Vowels

Module Eight , Experiencing the Empty Chart—Vowels , takes readers through an exploration of the empty vowel chart in order to experience a larger variety of vowel sounds than occurs in their spoken language(s). It is also an opportunity to understand the value of the International Phonetic Association’s schematic representation of vowel space within the oral cavity in the form of a quadrilateral. Readers explore the concept and rules of this chart in their vocal tract. They are also encouraged to “tape out” a vowel space on the floor of their room to experience a larger scale exploration of their vowel space. Readers learn the vowel ingredients for extreme locations of their vowel space which include lip and tongue shape. These extremes are framed as Cardinal Vowels—physical locations, separate from value or target.