Abstract
The study aims to explore the metalinguistic judgments of English syllable structures and lexical stress patterns perceived by Odki English as a Second Language (ESL) adult learners. The paper lays emphasis on phonological adjustments in Pakistan English spoken by the native Odki speakers and especially in their word stress and syllabification. The study examines syllables and stress perception and production by Odki speakers, which are attributed to their first language. The samples were gathered from six Odki-speaking undergraduate students in Karachi. The quantitative method was employed to analyse the frequency of syllable and stress variations. Stress and syllable division were analysed using a set of 100 English words that have different syllable counts. The identification of syllables and stress placement of English words was inconsistent, and some respondents identified these variables correctly, exhibiting partial adaptation. The results are intended to enhance cross-cultural communication and contribute to teaching the English language in Pakistan. The paper also revisits the previous studies regarding the phonological differences of Pakistan English, focusing on the impact of first languages such as Odki on the pronunciation of English. It further argues the role of other local languages such as the Pashto, Punjabi and Sindhi in English speech in Pakistan. The pronunciation of English in Pakistani English is also not given much attention in Pakistani education systems, thus causing a problem of fluency and accuracy.
Keywords:
ESL Learners, Metalinguistic Study, Odki Speakers, Pakistani English, Phonological DifferencesReferences
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