Collaborative Opening Online Exercise
https://wordwall.net/resource/62404036
Language Registers: Formal, Informal and Neutral English
·FORMAL
Formal language, even when spoken, is often associated with the conventions expected of written standard English.
Formal English follow rules of grammar very strictly. Sentences tend to be
longer and more complex. The vocabulary tends to be elevated, using big words
and avoiding colloquial or slang vocabulary. It avoids split infinitives and
prepositions at the end of sentences.
Rules of the formal language register:
1. Do not use contractions
2. Spell out numbers less than one hundred
3. Write in third person point of view.
4. Avoid using too much active voice.
5. Avoid using slang, idioms, exaggeration (hyperboles) and
clichés
6. Avoid abbreviations and acronyms
7. Do not start sentences with words like and, so, but,
also
8. Always write in complete sentences.
9. Write longer, more complex sentences.
· INFORMAL
Informal language is characterized by a simpler grammatical structure (i.e. loosely-connected sentences and phrases), and personal evaluation. Informal language may make use of slang and colloquialisms, employing the conventions of spoken language. However, it is too casual and loose to be acceptable for academic writing.
With informal
writing, you can include things such as:
- Slang and clichés
- Figurative language
- Symbols and abbreviations
- Acronyms
- Incomplete sentences
- Short sentences
- First person, second person, and
third person
- Jokes
- Personal opinions
- Extra punctuation (Hi Bob!!!!!!!)
- Passive and active voice
· NEUTRAL
We use
the neutral language register with non-emotional topics and information.
Neutral
writing is not necessarily formal or informal. It is not usually positive or
negative. A neutral register is used to deliver facts.
Some
writings are written in a neutral register. This means they are not
specifically formal or informal.
Rules of Neutral Writing:
- Phrasal verbs & contractions = OK
- Some idioms are OK, but avoid slang and text speaking.
- Use polite English.
Chart about the Structure for a Letter or Email
