Learn Shona from Native Speakers

Learn Shona Pronunciation

Shona is one of the two principal languages of Zimbabwe, and extenas also into adjacent areas of Mozambique. It consists of a number of dialects, but a standaraized form of the language, based on the Zezuru, Manyika, and Korekore dialects, is generally used in printed materials. These dialects differ from one another in pronunciation (including tones) and in vocabulary, but they are in general agreement with respect to the underlying grammatical system. One feature of this book is the attempt to represent simultaneously in the transcription several different pronunciations, in tone as well as in vowels and consonants.

This volume is intended to give the learner a start in Shona, providing him or her with dialogs that relate to some of the situations in which he or she is likely to use the language, as well as with systematic practice on all major points of grammar. Emphasis is placed on leading the learner to assume increasing amounts of responsibility and initiative as he or she progresses through the book.