In English, every word with two or more syllables has one syllable that is longer and louder than the others. This syllable is called the stressed syllable. Word stress is very important. If you do not use correct word stress, others may have trouble understanding you.

Word stress can be represented by simple patterns. For example, we can use a series of small and big O's to show word stress patterns. Small O's represent unstressed syllables. Big O's represent stressed syllables.

Examples:
1. building-------Oo
2. inside---------oO
3. understand---ooO

For this activity, read the word and choose the correct stress pattern. You can also hear the word by clicking on the player.

Have fun!