Shadowing for Speaking Based on Cognitive Brain System

Abstract

This paper explored shadowing as an oral practice to improve second language (L2) speaking skills, drawing on cognitive brain systems such as the working memory and Levelt's (1989) production model. The 2023 National Achievement Tests revealed that Japanese junior high school students scored low on English speaking tests, implying that developing L2 fluency in English classrooms is quite challenging in Japan. Speaking in an L2 is difficult due to its feature of simultaneous multiple processing and the lack of automatization in speech processes. Shadowing, involving listening and the immediate repetition of incoming heard speech, is proposed as an effective practice to enhance L2 speaking abilities (Kadota, 2012, 2015, 2018, 2019). The paper discussed how shadowing utilizes and strengthens the phonological loop in working memory and how it enhances the functions of the articulator and the formulator in speech production. Previous studies have shown that shadowing can improve phoneme perception, pronunciation, and faster articulation by automating speech perception and some production processes. Finally, this paper introduced a seven-step shadowing training method, which includes listening, mumbling, parallel reading, prosody shadowing, content shadowing, role-playing reading aloud, and retelling. This structured approach aims to develop speaking skills through holistic chunk learning, analytic rule learning, and automatic manipulation.