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We’re going to be taking a look at the differences

between written and spoken

English in this unit.

Oral and written English

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Could you tell which one was the transcript?

Yes, of course it was the second one.

What were the signs that gave the game

away?

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Once upon a time there was these three pigs. So one day the pigs’ mum and dad -their parents- told them-er-they said you’ve got to…you’ve gotta leave home. They weren’t-er- cross with them or anything, it was just, y’know, time to grow up and start on their own.

Well..so..the pigs..the little pigs that is…

hesitations

casual grammar information

to make sure speaker is being understood

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There are other differences between spoken and written English.

Can you think of any?

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Gesture

Speakers can use their hands to make gestures to help illustrate a point or give emphasis.

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Facial expression

The expression on your face can help to illustrate a story or show how you feel about what you are saying.

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Tone

The tone of your voice can add a great deal of meaning to the story. Pausing on purpose or raising or lowering your tone can create suspense or emphasis.

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In many spoken situations the audience can ask questions or even join in, creating a dialogue.

Audience participation

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PlenarySpoken English uses

tone of voice,pauses,and body-language to make the meaning

clearer.When we speak we tend to be more repetitive in

order to help our listeners follow.

‘Paralanguage’:

Speech usually has more

hesitations.

Often the audience can

join in.

Just call me, ‘Mr.

Dictionary’!