Week 8

STYLE AND REGISTER OF SPOKEN DISCOURSE

Style

- refers to the unique way in which the information is delivered to the listeners
- eg., to persuade people, we need to speak with enthusiasm and in a cheerful manner
so that people are convinced of what is communicated
- styles of spoken discourse takes into account the content to be conveyed, as well as
relationship of the communicators
- eg. if the content is important, then it can be communicated in a serious style filled
with only the relevant information, for entertainment, it can be filled with jokes or
humour to create excitement and interest while sharing of stories/real life experiences
can be used to inspire the listeners

Register

- refers to particular types of language that are used for particular purposes
- it can be in the form of informal and formal registers
- informal register requires the use of informal language, that is, not a need to use
absolutely correct grammar and can use colloquial language
- eg. of informal register usage is when talking to friends
- formal register requires the use of formal language, that is, the use of correct
grammar and avoid any colloquial language
- eg. of formal register usage is when talking to your principal

TUTORIAL

In pairs, identify and discuss a situation/context to use both formal and informal
registers to convey the same message. Then, present orally using the appropriate
style.