LANGUAGE AND TONE

LANGUAGE AND TONE Language refers to the words a writer uses. Tone is the way the writer uses those words to convey a certain attitude or feeling to the reader.

LANGUAGE AND TONE Language (what is said) and tone (how it is said) are determined by the author’s purpose and the intended audience. For example, the way you ask someone for a favor is very different from the way you tell someone to leave you alone.

LANGUAGE AND TONE Also, the language and tone you use with your friends at the lunch table probably would not be appropriate in the principal’s office. To see how language and tone can differ in respect to the audience, read and compare the letters that follow.

May 17, 2007 Purrfect Pets 621 Peachtree Terrace Atlanta, Georgia Dear Sir: Because of my great love for animals, I am very interested in working at Purrfect Pets. I visit your store frequently as I purchase food and supplies to care for my several cats and dogs. I am always impressed by the cleanliness of your store and the care you show the animals. This summer I will be available to work full-time. Once school begins in the fall, I will need to reduce my hours to part-time, but I will still be available to work on nights and weekends. Please find enclosed my application and a list of references. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely, Katie Jones

Dear Jack, What’s up?! I’m really psyched about workin’ at the CD Emporium with you this summer. I mean I don’t have the job yet, but why wouldn’t they hire me? By the way, can you stop by the CDE on your way to school tomorrow and pick up a job application for me? Thanks! You’re the best! Does your sister sill want to wok at that stupid pet store? That would gross me out! Cleaning out all those cages with all the animal stuff in it. No thanks! Give me some cellophane-wrapped CDs any day. Catch you later. Thanks again. T.J.

Similarities Both writers are seeking jobs for the summer. Both writers want to work where they will enjoy what they will be doing.

Differences The authors share a similar purpose, but their audiences are different. Sally T.J. Audience: Pet shop owner Audience: Friend Purpose: asking for a job Purpose: asking for a favor Form: Business letter (formal) Form: E-mail (informal) Avoids dialect and slang Uses slang terms and abbreviations that Jack will understand easily Tone is formal and respectful Tone is playful and informal

Different Types of Language Colloquial English refers to words that are appropriate in dialogue and informal writing but inappropriate in formal writing. Examples: contractions, short words, and cliches Y’all; The apple never falls far from the tree. Slang is very informal language that enjoys a brief popularity and then generally becomes obsolete. Examples: crib, dis, groovy, cool, my bad, word

TYPES OF LANGUAGE Non-Standard English contains grammar and usage that do not follow the standard rules for English. Standard American English is the English that is most widely accepted in the United States. Which one should you use in formal writing?

EXAMPLES OF NON-STAND AND STANDARD ENGLISH Non-Standard Standard I’m doin’ pretty good. I am well. You and me talks all the time. You and I talk all the time. I ain’t got no money. I do not have any money.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF TONE Angry Stiff Dramatic Optimistic Sad anxious relaxed fearful pessimistic tragic rude hysterical happy formal humorous calm hopeful arrogant informal serious sarcastic

Examples of Informal and Formal Tone I’m so psyched! I am very happy. Ain’t no way I’m gonna work for you. I regret to say that I must decline your offer of employment. How much are you gonna sell that car for? I wanted to inquire about the car for sale.

Guided Practice Using the terms you have just learned, describe the language and tone you would use in writing to each of the following audiences. School principal Other students Good friend Editor of the local newspaper Manager at work