Lesson 11: Count the Notes – How Many Vowels Can You Hear?

Let’s talk rhythm. English rhythm is based on vowel sounds—not spelling. That’s why fluent English has a musical feeling.

Warm-Up: Sing this out loud:

“Happy Birthday to You”

Now... how many syllables (beats) did you just sing?

Most students get it wrong—even though they can sing it perfectly.

Why? Because in Japanese, Y is not a vowel. But in English, it often acts like one!

Quiz: Count the Vowel Sounds

Say each word or sentence out loud. Don’t count letters. Don’t count kanji. Count vowel sounds. Write your answers on the line.

1. banana = _____
2. support = _____
3. America = _____
4. I want a banana = _____
5. This is the pen = _____
6. I’m going to eat now = _____
7. Do you want it? = _____
8. Happy Birthday to You = _____

Think you're ready? Check your answers on page 10 (Chapter 1: The Four Rules of Real-World Pronunciation).

Bonus: バス Day vs バー Day

Try singing this:

Happy バス Day to You…

Sounds totally wrong, right?

Now try:

Happy バー Day to You…

Suddenly sounds… right?!

Why? Even though both use katakana, the second version matches:

• Vowel length (long "aa" feels natural)
• Rhythm (one syllable instead of two)
• Emotional frequency (celebration vs transportation)

So yes, rhythm matters. Even when you’re singing about buses.

—Symeon