Minimal Pair

Minimal pairs are pairs of words that differ by only one phonological element, such as a single sound. For example, "bat" and "pat" or "ship" and "sheep." Teaching minimal pairs helps language learners develop phonemic awareness, improve pronunciation, and distinguish between similar sounds in the target language. Activities involving minimal pairs might include listening discrimination exercises, repetition drills, and practice with tongue twisters. Mastering minimal pairs is essential for clear and accurate speech production.