Hello everyone! Today we are going to talk about the difference between two diphthongs in English: /ai/ and /ua/.

First, let’s start with the /ai/ diphthong. This sound is made by combining the vowel sounds /a/ and /i/. It is pronounced by starting with the sound /a/ and then gliding into the sound /i/. For example, the word “bike” has the /ai/ sound in it. Can you all say “bike” with me?

Now, let’s move on to the /ua/ diphthong. This sound is made by combining the vowel sounds /u/ and /a/. It is pronounced by starting with the sound /u/ and then gliding into the sound /a/. For example, the word “blue” has the /ua/ sound in it. Can you all say “blue” with me?

So, what is the difference between these two diphthongs? The main difference is the starting sound. The /ai/ diphthong starts with the sound /a/ while the /ua/ diphthong starts with the sound /u/.

Let’s practice some more words with these diphthongs. I will say a word and you repeat it after me, paying attention to the diphthong sound.

• /ai/ diphthong: bike, time, kite, light
• /ua/ diphthong: blue, glue, fruit, suit

Great job, everyone! Keep practicing these diphthongs and you will be speaking English like a pro in no time.