Consonant Combinations in Annang and English Languages: A Look at Final Clusters

Abstract

This study explores consonant combinations in Annang and English
languages with particular attention on final clusters. It also discusses existing
similarities and differences inherent in the two languages. This study is a
survey of Students from three secondary schools and two tertiary institutions
in Akwa Ibom State. For the sake of convenience, purposive sampling
technique is used to select the sample. Questionnaire forms the major
instrument for data collection. Twenty respondents each from the selected
schools are randomly sampled and administered the research instrument.
Frequency counts and simple percentage are used to analyze the data.
Findings reveal among others that there are no final clusters in Annang: In
English not more than four sequences of clusters are permitted: mpts:
contempts. The affricates do not form clusters word finally in English. The
plosives are more complex in their combinations word finally than initially.
The segments /s/ and /f/ do not occur word finally in any known Annang
word. At any level of phonological exposure, there is still some difficulty in
recognising permitted or impossible structures. It is therefore concluded
that all categories of persons involved in language matters should be careful
in their handling of rules governing the use of particular languages especially
sound combinations in natural languages. Hence, policy makers should
make a more conscious effort by sponsoring and encouraging researches in
language study, such as Annang and Ibibio, applied and sociolinguistics.