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Year 10 - English

Using non-verbal features to present a speech effectively

Spoken language: the language of change

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils look at powerful speeches and emulate them by writing their own speeches. They first read, analyse and compare powerful speeches. They then hone their craft by understanding the features that contribute towards creating a powerful speech. They finally plan and write a speech.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to understand how non-verbal features contribute to the effective presentation of a speech.

Key Notes

  • Paralanguage is important: the pitch, tempo, loudness or tone of voice that is used in speeches can enhance the content.
  • Kinesics - gesture and posture - can be used to engage the audience and to add emphasis to important points.
  • Spoken language often needs to be slower than feels natural.
  • Pupils need to consider their spatial behaviour- too much movement can be distracting but too little can be wooden.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • paralanguage: the features of verbal communication other than words e.g tone, volume and pitch.
  • kinesics: the way body language, facial expressions and gestures can communicate meaning.
  • pitch: this refers to the highness and lowness of your voice.
  • tone: this refers to the attitude and emotion of your voice.
  • posture: refers to the way someone holds themselves when they're seated or standing.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Content alone is enough for an effective speech.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Paralanguage is important: the pitch, tempo, loudness or tone of voice that is used in speeches can enhance the content. Kinesics - gesture and posture - can be used to engage the audience and to add emphasis to important points.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'paralanguage'

the features of verbal communication other than words e.g tone, volume and pitch.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Content alone is enough for an effective speech. Correction: Consider the most engaging speakers and how they use tone, gestures and eye contact. Giving a speech is so much more than just the words on a page.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 10 English guide library.