1. Using Language to make people laugh
Jokes and Puns
Using Language to make people laugh

2. Puns
Some words have multiple meanings, whether they are spelled the same or not
Example: Rock (to move back and forth, a small stone, a type of music)
Example: Time/Thyme (measuring the passing of seconds and a seasoning)
When we use another meaning of the word on purpose to be funny, we are using a pun
Puns are very common in sarcasm and jokes
To understand them, we must think of the context, think of the alternate meanings of the words, and choose a meaning that makes the most sense

3. The anatomy of a joke Part 1: The set-up Part 2: The punchline
A story, a sentence, or a question that starts the joke
It establishes the rules/expectations of the joke, the setting, and any characters
Should make the listener curious or interested
Part 2: The punchline
New information added at the end of the joke
Often twists/changes the listener’s expectations
Might use a pun for comedic effect
The surprise punchline makes people laugh
Analogy: (How does this show anatomy of a joke?)

4. Explain the joke/pun with a small group!

5. Explain the joke/pun with a small group!

6. Explain the joke/pun with a small group!

7. Explain the joke/pun with a small group!

8. Explain the joke/pun with a small group!

9. Explain the joke/pun with a small group!

10. Explain the joke/pun with a small group!

11. Guidelines for Telling Jokes
Practice the joke before you tell it. Make sure you know which parts to emphasize, where to pause (usually right before the punchline), and that you know all the pieces before you begin.
Make sure you understand the joke. Some jokes have a darker or inappropriate meaning and you don’t want to tell those.
If you hear a joke, you can laugh. If you don’t feel like laughing, you can say something positive, like “good one.” If it’s a corny joke, you can smile and groan.

12. Your Job Your teacher will give you a list of jokes.
Pick a joke that you understand.
Practice telling the joke with a partner. Make sure your voice tone and pacing (how fast you talk and when you pause) helps us understand the joke!
We will then share the jokes with the class. Practice responding to jokes appropriately!
Responding Hint: Jokes that start with a question usually don’t REALLY want you to answer. You are supposed to wait or say “What?”