Page 22 - English_F5

English

DID YOU ?
KNOW

We follow specific social rules that are a reflection of our cultural norms when
we interact with one another in society. As we interact, the level of formality can
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be used as a tool to help us fit into different social situations we encounter in
society- our family, friends, school, colleagues at the workplace, etc. The levels
of formality guide our behaviour and communication patterns in different social
environments and situations in which we find ourselves. The levels of formality
help us to interact with each other in the way that is expected of us in specific
circumstances.

Think about the language you use when you are talking with your friends versus
the way you talk with your teachers. Levels of formality differ depending on
the social context. Think about academic life. Some academic settings require
specialised and professional language connected with specific academic fields.
This requirement impacts the levels of formality in the language that is used in
these environments.

Intimate language, as in Dialogue 1 is characterised by being simple and the
grammatical norms are not necessarily adhered to. It can also include slang and
colloquialisms, as it is in the casual level of formality which is frequently used
among friends and acquaintances, such as classmates and colleagues presented in
Dialogue 2. Both the intimate level of formality and the casual level of formality fit
the language in an informal setting, but the same language will not be appropriate
in the consultative level of formality which is used in formal, academic, public,
and professional settings, as in Dialogue 3.

You need to select the best or most appropriate level of formality to use in each
specific context to communicate effectively. Being aware of the differences
in various registers and levels of formality, and knowing when and where it is
appropriate to use them, will help you use language to communicate in the best way
possible in order to deliver your meanings and messages clearly and consistently.

Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE) 13 Form Five

24/06/2024 22:26
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