Web Immersive Reader: Inconsistent pronunciation and prosody of single-letter variables in math expressions

Single-letter mathematical variables are pronounced inconsistently across different math expression contexts in the web-based version of the Microsoft Immersive Reader. This creates a confusing and jarring auditory experience for users.

## What is happening

- The variable 'a' is pronounced with a hard 'A' sound in some expression contexts, but users a soft/different vowel sound in other contexts. Sometimes the sound used is so soft and short it is hard to tell if the variable is being spoken at all!
- The variable 'i' exhibits inconsistent prosodic patterns. It receives unexpected stress, altered timing and volume changes depending on the mathematical context.
- Video demo: [Inconsistent pronunciation and prosody of math variables in web-based MS Immersive Reader 00:01:07](https://iu.mediaspace.kaltura.com/media/t/1_6j2ql092)

## What should happen

- All single-letter variables should be pronounced consistently using their standard letter names (hard 'A' for 'a', "eye" for 'i', "why" for 'y', etc.) regardless of their context/position within a math expression.
- Variables should maintain consistent prosodic patterns (stress, timing, volume, etc.) regardless of their context/position within a math expression.
- Each variable should be treated as an isolated mathematical identifier rather than being processed via natural language phonetic rules

## Possible solution

Implement SSML markup to ensure consistent pronunciation. For example:
```xml
a
```
Or,
```xml
a
```

## Environment
- Browser: Microsoft Edge: 140.0.3485.66 (Official build) (64-bit)
- Windows 11 Version 24H2 (Build 26100.6584)
- Document Source: OneDrive web interface
- Immersive Reader: Browser-based version
- Date tested: 9/17/2025
- URL pattern: `https://indiana-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/personal/brichwin_iu_edu/_layouts/15/Doc.aspx?`

## Sample file

[Math expressions to test read aloud.docx](https://github.com/user-attachments/files/22392293/Math.expressions.to.test.read.aloud.docx)