Informal vs. Formal Writing

In what situation is formal language appropriate?

• when calling a close friend

• when speaking with your teacher

• when playing a game with your little brother

• when talking with a friend on the bus

Tags

CCSS.SL.7.6

CCSS.W.6.1D

CCSS.W.7.1D

CCSS.W.7.2E

CCSS.W.8.1D

Which is not considered part of informal language?

• talking with a friend
• using slang
• personal writing
• writing an essay in school

What is a characteristic of informal language?

• no slang

• writing out numbers

• abbreviations

• serious tone

Which is a characteristic of formal language?

• short, sometimes incomplete sentences

• use of contractions

• use of abbreviations

• clear assertive language

I would prefer that you turn down the volume on your television.

• Formal

• Informal

Tags

CCSS.SL.6.6

CCSS.SL.7.6

CCSS.W.6.1D

CCSS.W.7.1D

CCSS.W.7.2E

Man, I'm starving. When's dinner?

• Formal

• Informal

"In this article, the author talks about...."

Write a more formal term for "talks about."

Tags

CCSS.SL.7.6

CCSS.SL.8.6

CCSS.W.7.1D

CCSS.W.7.2E

CCSS.W.8.1D

Which sentence is the formal way of saying, “He asked for more cash.”

• He wants more money.
• Better give him more dough.
• I need some extra bucks.
• He requested more money.

Tags

CCSS.SL.7.6

CCSS.W.6.2E

CCSS.W.7.1D

CCSS.W.7.2E

CCSS.W.8.2E

Instead of saying, “there’s something else”, the formal word to use would be:

• Furthermore
• Sincerely
• Verify
• Ensure

Tags

CCSS.SL.7.6

CCSS.SL.8.6

CCSS.W.7.1D

CCSS.W.7.2E

CCSS.W.8.1D

"These products can't be this expensive."

Which element of informal language is used here?

• Use of informal vocabulary

• Use of personal pronouns

• Use of contractions

• Use of abbreviations