Intonation in English & Arabic

Functions of intonation : In grammatical structure . Clarify the contrast between different question types & the way which question differ from statement . Express speaker’s attitude .

The importance of intonation in social interaction : Turn-talking Information structure Distinguishing the meaning

Intonation pattern : two basic patterns : Falling intonation. Rising intonation .

What is falling intonation ? a pattern in which your voice falls to low pitch by the end of the thought group or statement .

What it does communicate ? Certainty : You are telling the fact or you are right . Completion : You are done from speaking .

Falling intonation : Declarative sentence . WH- question . Commands .

What is rising intonation ? Conveys your impression It is used on : Yes – No questions. open choice alternative questions.

Types of English intonation : High – Fall : The voice starts high and falls to law pitch . We use it in : *Polite , friendly verbless . *Polite & affirmative structure . ex. This is the living room . Well , what did you eat? Youarent serious. Are you?

Low – Rise : The voice starts at low or medium pitch and rises to high pitch . We use it in : When expecting disagreement in tag- question structure . ex. You like to drink tea , don't you ? Repeat. What did you say? Confident imparative: Press the button.

Low – Fall : The voice starts medium pitch and falls to low pitch . We use it in : In cold expressions verbless . ex. Good Serious imparative Turn right again

Low –Rise : The voice starts low and rises to medium pitch . We use it in : Friendly & polite expression in an interrogative structure . ex. Do you live near here ?

Fall –Rise : The voice starts high then falls then rise . We use it in : Expressing partial agreement ex . He is flying to London .

Rise – Fall : The voice starts in medium pitch then rises and then falls . We use it in : Expressing impressions in a form of verbless structure . ex . Fantastic

Intonation patterns in Arabic : The differences between English and Arabic intonation pattern :

b) Calling on persons

b) Calling on persons

activities for teaching English intonation : Teacher must be aware of different function of intonation . Use conversation in order to turn-talking , supporting , questioning . Have assistant ( record – native speakers)

Teacher can use role play and drama activities ( play – stories…..) Intonation can also be taught by fun and games . Teachers can express their attitude and feeling by using intonation .

Practice : Say “ Hello “ To a friend you meet regularly . To a friend you haven’t seen for 10 years . To a friend whom you don’t like .