Chap 9: Intonation in English

What is intonation?

• Rhythm of syllables

• Pitch movement in speech

• Word stress pattern

• Speed of speech

Which feature is NOT part of intonation?

• Pitch movement

• Loudness

• Word meaning

• Sentence attitude

Which of the following best describes intonation?

• A grammar rule

• Rise and fall of pitch in speech

• Consonant linking

• Vowel reduction

Why is intonation important in English?

• It helps with spelling

• It distinguishes speakers

• It expresses meaning, attitude, and emotion

• It separates vowels from consonants

In English, intonation often reflects:

• Stress only

• Spelling accuracy

• Speaker’s attitude and sentence type

• Consonant classification

What intonation do yes/no questions usually have?

• Falling

• Rising

• Flat

• No intonation

Which intonation is typical in statements?

• Rising

• Fall-rise

• Falling

• Gliding

“Do you like it?” usually ends with:

• Falling tone ↘

• Rising tone ↗

• Fall-rise ↘↗

• Flat tone —

“I’m fine.” (neutral statement) ends with:

• Rising tone

• Falling tone

• Fall-rise

• Rising-fall

A fall-rise tone usually expresses:

• Surprise

• Finality

• Doubt, hesitation, or politeness

• Anger