Rising and Falling Intonation

Intonation is a great way to convey feeling or intent when speaking.

What is intonation?

• Whether we’re asking a question, making a statement, or expressing how we feel about something, intonation is crucial. Intonation refers to the rise and fall of the pitch of our voice.

Why do we use rising intonation?

• We use rising intonation on yes/no questions. (Yes/no questions are questions we can answer with a simple yes or no.)
  
• We use rising intonation on yes/no questions. (Yes/no questions are questions we can answer with a simple yes or no.)
  
• We use rising intonation on a statement in order to signal that we’re asking the statement as a question.
• We use rising intonation when we’d like to check or confirm something.
• We use rising intonation to signal uncertainty or doubt.
  
• When we use rising intonation mid-sentence, it signals to the other person that we haven’t completed our thought or idea, and suggests that they shouldn’t interrupt us. They should give us a moment to finish what we’re saying.
  
• In American culture, we often use rising intonation to sound more friendly or approachable.

Warning: This video contains an incredibly cute puppy being held by two very sweet kids, so watch at your own peril.

Instructions:

• Watch the video and follow the cues.
• Practice with your friends and family by using intonation when you’re sharing a story or telling them something that happened to you.