A language typology based on common errors made in pronunciation of English by speakers of other languages is presented and discussed. The classification system was developed from the concept of interlanguage, the intermediate step between a language learner's native and target languages, and the notion that interference in learning a new language can occur in the transition from one phonological system to another. It focuses on representative languages spoken by refugees and immigrants in Washington State, including Japanese, Vietnamese, Khmer, Amharic, Polish, and to a lesser extent, Mandarin, Korean, Spanish, Thai, Margi, and Igbo. General parameters are offered by which the teacher may assess students' pronunciation needs so as to provide more effective instruction. Some universal characteristics of second language learning and how they may be reconciled with language-specific characteristics are also discussed. Then, general characteristics of tone and stress languages are outlined and each of several foreign language sound systems are discussed specifically. Finally, brief generalizations are offered for use in the classroom. A list of references is included. (MSE)