1. LANGUAGE AND TONE

2. LANGUAGE AND TONE Language refers to the words a writer uses.
Tone is the way the writer uses those words to convey a certain attitude or feeling to the reader.

3. LANGUAGE AND TONE
Language (what is said) and tone (how it is said) are determined by the author’s purpose and the intended audience.
For example, the way you ask someone for a favor is very different from the way you tell someone to leave you alone.

4. LANGUAGE AND TONE
Also, the language and tone you use with your friends at the lunch table probably would not be appropriate in the principal’s office.
To see how language and tone can differ in respect to the audience, read and compare the letters that follow.

5. May 17, 2007
Purrfect Pets
621 Peachtree Terrace
Atlanta, Georgia
Dear Sir:
Because of my great love for animals, I am very interested in working at Purrfect Pets. I visit your store frequently as I purchase food and supplies to care for my several cats and dogs. I am always impressed by the cleanliness of your store and the care you show the animals.
This summer I will be available to work full-time. Once school begins in the fall, I will need to reduce my hours to part-time, but I will still be available to work on nights and weekends.
Please find enclosed my application and a list of references. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Katie Jones

6. Dear Jack,
What’s up?! I’m really psyched about workin’ at the CD Emporium with you this summer. I mean I don’t have the job yet, but why wouldn’t they hire me? By the way, can you stop by the CDE on your way to school tomorrow and pick up a job application for me? Thanks! You’re the best!
Does your sister sill want to wok at that stupid pet store? That would gross me out! Cleaning out all those cages with all the animal stuff in it. No thanks! Give me some cellophane-wrapped CDs any day. Catch you later. Thanks again.
T.J.

7. Similarities Both writers are seeking jobs for the summer.
Both writers want to work where they will enjoy what they will be doing.

8. Differences
The authors share a similar purpose, but their audiences are different.
Sally
T.J.
Audience: Pet shop owner
Audience: Friend
Purpose: asking for a job
Purpose: asking for a favor
Form: Business letter (formal)
Form: (informal)
Avoids dialect and slang
Uses slang terms and abbreviations that Jack will understand easily
Tone is formal and respectful
Tone is playful and informal

9. Different Types of Language
Colloquial English refers to words that are appropriate in dialogue and informal writing but inappropriate in formal writing.
Examples: contractions, short words, and cliches
Y’all; The apple never falls far from the tree.
Slang is very informal language that enjoys a brief popularity and then generally becomes obsolete.
Examples: crib, dis, groovy, cool, my bad, word

10. TYPES OF LANGUAGE
Non-Standard English contains grammar and usage that do not follow the standard rules for English.
Standard American English is the English that is most widely accepted in the United States.
Which one should you use in formal writing?

11. EXAMPLES OF NON-STAND AND STANDARD ENGLISH
Non-Standard
Standard
I’m doin’ pretty good.
I am well.
You and me talks all the time.
You and I talk all the time.
I ain’t got no money.
I do not have any money.

12. DIFFERENT TYPES OF TONE
Angry
Stiff
Dramatic
Optimistic
Sad
anxious
relaxed
fearful
pessimistic
tragic
rude
hysterical
happy
formal
humorous
calm
hopeful
arrogant
informal
serious
sarcastic

13. Examples of Informal and Formal Tone
I’m so psyched!
I am very happy.
Ain’t no way I’m gonna work for you.
I regret to say that I must decline your offer of employment.
How much are you gonna sell that car for?
I wanted to inquire about the car for sale.

14. Guided Practice
Using the terms you have just learned, describe the language and tone you would use in writing to each of the following audiences.
School principal
Other students
Good friend
Editor of the local newspaper
Manager at work