Karisma Rani Renda Irsada Pengarang Drs. Soleman Dapa Taka, MA Dosen Pembimbing 1 Selfiana P. Mbadi, S.Pd., M.Pd Dosen Pembimbing 2 Drs. Yosep B. Kroon, MA., Ph.D Ketua Penguji Drs.Soleman Dapa Taka, MA Penguji 1 Selfiana P. Mbadi, S.Pd., M.Pd Penguji 2 Drs. Soleman Dapa Taka, MA Contributor Selfiana P. Mbadi, S.Pd., M.Ed Contributor

ABSTRACT MISPRONUNCIATION OF SELECTED ENGLISH WORDS AMONG 7-YEARS-OLD CHILDREN AT HAPPY COURSE IN KUPANG Karisma Rani Renda Irsada This research aims to identify and analyze the mispronunciation of selected English words among 7-year-old children at Happy Course in Kupang. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the study involved four participants selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through observations, in-depth interviews, documentation, and audio recordings, then analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing techniques. The findings reveal four major types of mispronunciation errors: substitution, omission, metathesis, and assimilation. Substitution errors occurred when unfamiliar English phonemes—such as /θ/, /ð/, and /v/—were replaced with more familiar sounds from the learners’ first language, such as /t/, /d/, and /p/. Omission errors involved the deletion of final consonants, consonant clusters, or entire syllables, especially in multisyllabic words. Metathesis and assimilation, though less frequent, also reflected typical developmental phonological processes. The study also found that first language interference, limited exposure to English outside the classroom, and psychological factors such as confidence and anxiety significantly contributed to these pronunciation errors. Mispronunciation was shown to affect not only learners' oral accuracy but also vocabulary comprehension and communicative clarity. This study suggests the importance of integrating phonological awareness activities and providing rich English language exposure to young learners. It also recommends that teachers and parents offer consistent support to reinforce correct pronunciation habits from an early age. Keywords: 7-year-old children, first language interference, mispronunciation, phonological errors, second language acquisition, selected English words