Introduction

Hello Year 7! Today, we are going to learn about speaking styles. Just like when you write, the way you speak can change depending on the situation. Understanding different speaking styles will help you communicate better in various contexts.

What Are Speaking Styles?

Speaking styles refer to how we talk to people based on where we are and who we are with. For example, you might speak differently to your friends than you do to your teachers or during a formal event.

Different Contexts

  1. Informal Contexts:
    • This is when you are with friends or family.
    • You can use slang, jokes, and casual language.
    • Example: “Hey mate, wanna hang out later?”
  2. Formal Contexts:
    • This is when you are in a serious situation, like a presentation or a job interview.
    • You should use polite language and avoid slang.
    • Example: “Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for being here today.”
  3. Academic Contexts:
    • This is when you are in school or learning something.
    • Use clear language and explain your ideas well.
    • Example: “In my opinion, the author uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings.”

Key Rules for Speaking Styles

  1. Know Your Audience:
    • Think about who you are speaking to and what they expect.
  2. Be Clear:
    • Speak clearly and at a good pace. Don’t rush your words.
  3. Use Appropriate Language:
    • Use words that fit the situation. Avoid slang in formal settings.
  4. Body Language Matters:
    • Use gestures and facial expressions to help convey your message.
  5. Practice Makes Perfect:
    • The more you practice speaking in different styles, the better you will become!

Tips and Tricks

  • Listen and Learn: Pay attention to how others speak in different situations. You can learn a lot from their styles.
  • Practice with Friends: Try speaking in different styles with your friends. It can be fun and helpful!
  • Record Yourself: Use your phone to record yourself speaking. Listen back and see how you can improve.

Questions

Easy Level Questions

  1. What is an informal speaking style?
  2. Give an example of a formal speaking situation.
  3. Why is it important to know your audience?
  4. What does academic speaking usually involve?
  5. Name one way to improve your speaking skills.
  6. How would you greet your friend?
  7. How would you greet your teacher?
  8. What does slang mean?
  9. When is it okay to use slang?
  10. What should you do to speak clearly?

Medium Level Questions

  1. Describe two differences between formal and informal speaking styles.
  2. How can body language affect your speaking?
  3. Why is it important to use appropriate language in different contexts?
  4. Give an example of a situation where you would use academic language.
  5. How can listening to others improve your speaking skills?
  6. Why might you avoid slang in a job interview?
  7. What is one benefit of practicing speaking with friends?
  8. Describe a time when you had to change your speaking style.
  9. How can recording yourself help your speaking?
  10. What is symbolism in speaking?

Hard Level Questions

  1. Discuss how cultural differences can affect speaking styles.
  2. Why is it important to adapt your speaking style for different audiences?
  3. How does context influence the content of what you say?
  4. Describe a formal presentation you might give. What language would you use?
  5. How can humor be used effectively in informal speaking?
  6. Explain the importance of tone in speaking.
  7. Discuss how technology has changed the way we communicate.
  8. What are some challenges of speaking in a second language?
  9. How can you improve your public speaking skills?
  10. Describe the relationship between speaking style and confidence.

Answers

Easy Level Answers

  1. An informal speaking style is casual and friendly, often used with friends.
  2. A formal speaking situation could be a job interview or a presentation.
  3. Knowing your audience helps you choose the right words and tone.
  4. Academic speaking involves clear ideas and explanations, often in school settings.
  5. Practice speaking regularly.
  6. “Hey, what’s up?”
  7. “Good morning, Sir/Miss.”
  8. Slang refers to informal words and phrases.
  9. It’s okay to use slang with friends or in casual settings.
  10. Speak slowly and pronounce your words clearly.

Medium Level Answers

  1. Formal speaking is polite and uses standard language, while informal is casual and can use slang.
  2. Body language can help express your feelings and reinforce your message.
  3. Using appropriate language shows respect and understanding of the situation.
  4. Giving a speech or writing an essay would use academic language.
  5. Listening to others can give you ideas on how to improve your own speaking.
  6. Slang can make you seem unprofessional.
  7. Practicing with friends can make you more comfortable and confident.
  8. I had to speak more formally during a school presentation than when I’m with friends.
  9. It helps you hear your mistakes and improve your speech.
  10. Symbolism is when one thing represents another idea or concept.

Hard Level Answers

  1. Cultural differences can lead to different expectations for how to speak and behave.
  2. Adapting your speaking style helps you connect better with your audience.
  3. Context can change the formality, tone, and content of your message.
  4. I would use structured language and avoid slang, focusing on clear points.
  5. Humor can lighten the mood but should fit the audience and context.
  6. Tone affects how your message is received; it can convey excitement or seriousness.
  7. Technology, like texting and social media, has made communication quicker but sometimes less formal.
  8. Challenges include vocabulary differences and understanding cultural nuances.
  9. You can practice speaking in front of a mirror or in front of friends.
  10. Speaking style and confidence are linked; the more you practice, the more confident you become.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions! Happy speaking!