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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.