- Practical and effective; based on the author's own experience in mastering the difficult Lao language - Innovative use of speech waveforms to demonstrate to the student the actual form of Lao tonal expression - Includes downloadable MP3 audio files to enable the student to follow and practice native speakers' usage Mastering a language as different to English as Lao may at first seem to be impossible, with its strange looking script and its multitude of tones and vowels, the task can be decidedly intimidating. Compounding the problems, many native Lao language teachers don't fully understand how to effectively explain these aspects of their language to the expatriate. Rather than a linguistic treatise, Shapes and Sounds of the Lao Language is a practical guide to help you to become fluent in Lao. Using a combination of relevant descriptions, language learning tricks, flash cards, drills and comparison tracks on downloadable MP3 audio files, you will be able to conquer some of the most difficult aspects of the language. Certainly, learning a second language takes hard work and patience, but by following the instructions outlined in this book, you will get the most out of your efforts and will be delighted at the progress you never believed you could make. Contents: Introduction; Definition of Terms; 1. Consonants; 2. Vowels; 3. Tones; 4. Learning the Tones; 5. Tone Rules Answer Key; 6. Memorization Tricks; 7. Accompanying Audio Text.