Ideally students have heard some of or all of these words used in their study of music, even if briefly. If they haven’t heard these words often, say each one and let them say them back to you until you feel certain they can pronounce them well. Repeat certain words as needed.
pp pianissimo pee a nee' see mo very soft (quiet, whisper)
p piano (we know this one!) soft (quiet)
mp mezzo piano met' zo pee a' no medium soft (quiet)
mf mezzo forte met' zo for' tay medium loud (strong)
f forte for' tay loud (strong)
ff fortissimo for tee' see mo very loud (strong)