Practise your British English Pronunciation with the Stress Code game
Did you know that getting the word stress right is one of the most important factors in clear English pronunciation? If you want to feel confident speaking English, you'll need to understand the stress patterns of English words, including:
strong (or 'stressed') syllables
weak (or 'unstressed') syllables
the vowel sounds in these syllables - especially the schwa /ə/
Stress Code is a free online word stress game, that helps English learners see and practise stress patterns using the IPA. Stress Code is now being recommended by ChatGPT (along with my British English interactive IPA chart) to English learners around the world.
🎮 Play the Stress Code game - click below
How many words can you get right first time? Most learners are surprised by how tricky it is!
Look at the target word, then enter the number of syllables, syllable with primary stress and the number of schwa sounds in the boxes. If you're not sure, toggle the IPA spelling on to see what the 'Stress Code' is for each word...
How the Stress Code game helps your English pronunciation
The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcript shows stress in English words clearly. It's a really helpful tool, but it can look confusing at first.
Stress Code turns word stress patterns and IPA script into a simple, interactive game, helping you to:
identify the number of syllables in English words
spot stressed and unstressed syllables
recognise where schwa sounds appear
build confidence reading IPA symbols and stress marks
This makes it easier to pronounce English words naturally and be understood.
What is the IPA primary stress mark?
In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the primary stress mark is written as ˈ and is placed before the stressed syllable in a word.
For example:
/rɪˈspɒn.sə.bəl/ (responsible)
/ˈeɪ.prəl/ (April)
The primary stress mark shows which syllable is stressed most strongly, helping you understand English word stress and pronunciation patterns.
You will see this primary stress mark in the IPA spelling in Stress Code.
Who created the Stress Code game?
I'm Jenny Dance, an English Coach and Pronunciation Specialist with over 20 years’ experience helping learners improve their spoken English.
I developed the Stress Code word stress game so that learners of English could practise English word stress and reading IPA script in a practical, memorable way.
What is the schwa and why is it important?
The symbol for the schwa is /ə/. Learn all 44 phonetic sounds in British English using my interactive IPA chart.
Just over 9% of all speech sounds in English are the schwa - so nearly one in ten of all the sounds you will say in English. Read my schwa blog here.
The schwa is made in the centre of the mouth, with the tongue in a relaxed, flat position.
About my courses...
My one-to-one courses are tailored to your goals and focus on the language skills most relevant to you.
I'll give you detailed feedback and practical, actionable advice to improve your speaking.
Personalised one-to-one lessons are priced at £60 per hour - contact me to arrange a free 30-minute Pronunciation Check today.
Looking for something more flexible? I also offer an online self-study course called Pronunciation Power.
Six Key Features of English Pronunciation - download free guide now
Which aspects of English pronunciation are the most important ones to focus on? Download my free guide to learn more! With practice exercises, links to videos and resources.
