Tone and Accent in Kisongwe

Abstract

This study is the first attempt at analyising the tonal system of Kisongwe, using Autosegmental phonology framework. This study aims at capturing generalizations which underline phonetic realizations of utterances in terms of formal phonological rules. This dissertation is organized into five chapters. Chapter one provides the problem area and the historical background to the study of Supra-Segmental, which include tone and accent. Chapter Two presents tonological processes which operate in Kisongwe Infinitival Verb forms, while chapter three discusses the same processes in Kisongwe finite Verb forms. Chapter four presents tonological processes that operate in Kisongwe nominal’s, Adjectives, possessives and Demonstratives. Chapter five provides the summary of findings and conclusions.