Speech Work: Intonation Patterns in Statements, Questions, and Commands – JSS 2 Lesson
Speech Work: Intonation – Identification of Intonation Patterns in Statements, Questions, and Commands for JSS 2 Second Term, Week 2, following your preferred format.
Speech Work: Intonation – Identification of Intonation Patterns in Statements, Questions, and Commands
Subject: English Language
Class: JSS 2
Term: Second Term
Week: 2
Age: 11 – 13 years
Duration: 40 minutes
Behavioral Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Define and explain intonation.
- Identify different types of intonation patterns.
- Recognize intonation patterns in statements, questions, and commands.
- Practice correct intonation patterns while speaking.
- Apply intonation correctly in daily conversations.
Keywords
- Intonation
- Rising tone
- Falling tone
- Statements
- Questions
- Commands
Set Induction
The teacher reads two sentences aloud using different intonation patterns:
- “You are coming with me.” (Falling tone)
- “Are you coming with me?” (Rising tone)
The teacher then asks students to identify the difference in tone and introduces the topic.
Entry Behavior
Students are familiar with basic sentence structures in English.
Learning Resources and Materials
- Audio recordings of different intonation patterns
- Flashcards with example sentences
- Phonetic transcription charts
- A voice recorder for playback exercises
Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge
The teacher reminds students that speech is not just about words but also about how words are spoken. Intonation helps convey meaning, emotion, and attitude.
Embedded Core Skills
- Listening skills
- Speaking skills
- Critical thinking
- Phonetic analysis
Learning Materials
- Lagos State Scheme of Work
- Standard English Dictionary
- Phonetics textbook
Reference Books
- Lagos State Scheme of Work for English Language
- JSS 2 English Language Textbook
- Phonetics and Phonology by Peter Roach
Lesson Presentation
Step 1: Definition and Explanation of Intonation
Teacher’s Activity:
- Defines intonation as the rise and fall of the voice when speaking.
- Explains that intonation conveys emotion, attitude, and meaning beyond just words.
Learners’ Activity:
- Listen to the teacher’s explanation and repeat the definition of intonation.
- Discuss why intonation is important in spoken English.
Step 2: Types of Intonation Patterns
Teacher’s Activity:
- Introduces the two main types of intonation:
| Intonation Pattern | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Falling Tone | Voice moves from high to low, used in statements, commands, and WH-questions. | “She is my friend.” “Sit down.” “Where are you going?” |
| Rising Tone | Voice moves from low to high, used in yes/no questions, polite requests, and incomplete thoughts. | “Are you coming?” “Can I help you?” “Really?” |
Learners’ Activity:
- Repeat the example sentences using the correct intonation patterns.
- Identify falling and rising tones in sample sentences.
Step 3: Identifying Intonation in Statements, Questions, and Commands
Teacher’s Activity:
- Explains how intonation changes based on sentence types:
- Statements → Falling tone (e.g., “I like oranges.”)
- Yes/No Questions → Rising tone (e.g., “Did you see him?”)
- WH-Questions → Falling tone (e.g., “Where is your book?”)
- Commands → Falling tone (e.g., “Close the door!”)
Learners’ Activity:
- Listen to the teacher and practice the different intonation patterns.
- Read aloud statements, questions, and commands using appropriate intonation.
Step 4: Practicing Intonation Patterns
Teacher’s Activity:
- Conducts pronunciation drills where students say given sentences with correct intonation.
- Uses a voice recorder to help students analyze their speech.
Learners’ Activity:
- Participate in pronunciation exercises.
- Practice intonation patterns in pairs.
Evaluation
Choose the correct intonation pattern for the following sentences:
-
“What is your name?”
a) Falling tone
b) Rising tone -
“Can I sit here?”
a) Falling tone
b) Rising tone -
“Shut the door!”
a) Rising tone
b) Falling tone -
“She lives in Lagos.”
a) Falling tone
b) Rising tone -
“Are you coming with us?”
a) Rising tone
b) Falling tone -
“Where do you live?”
a) Falling tone
b) Rising tone -
“Come here now!”
a) Falling tone
b) Rising tone -
“Did you eat your lunch?”
a) Falling tone
b) Rising tone -
“Please, sit down.”
a) Falling tone
b) Rising tone -
“The sun is shining.”
a) Falling tone
b) Rising tone
Class Activity Discussion (FAQs and Answers)
-
What is intonation?
Intonation is the rise and fall of the voice in speech. -
Why is intonation important?
It helps convey meaning, emotion, and attitude in communication. -
How many main types of intonation are there?
There are two main types: falling and rising intonation. -
Which intonation pattern is used in statements?
Falling tone. Example: “It is raining.” -
Which intonation pattern is used in yes/no questions?
Rising tone. Example: “Are you ready?” -
Which intonation pattern is used in commands?
Falling tone. Example: “Stop talking!” -
Can one sentence have both rising and falling intonation?
Yes, for example: “You’re coming, aren’t you?” (falling, then rising). -
Does intonation affect meaning?
Yes! “You are leaving?” (rising tone = question) vs. “You are leaving.” (falling tone = statement). -
What happens if we use the wrong intonation?
It can confuse the listener or change the meaning of a sentence. -
How can I improve my intonation?
Listen to native speakers, practice speaking aloud, and use recordings to check your tone.
Assessment (Evaluation Questions)
- Define intonation and explain its importance.
- List the two types of intonation and give two examples for each.
- Identify the correct intonation pattern for these sentences:
a) “Did you enjoy the movie?”
b) “I have a new book.”
c) “Go to bed now!”
d) “Where is my bag?” - Write five sentences and indicate the appropriate intonation for each.
Conclusion
The teacher marks students’ work, provides feedback, and emphasizes the importance of using the correct intonation in speech.