What is Intonation?

Intonation is the way our voice pitch goes up and down when we speak. It helps express different meanings and emotions. Without proper intonation, our speech can sound flat or confusing, leading to misunderstandings.

Types of Intonation

There are four main types of intonation you need to know:

1. Falling Intonation

The voice starts higher and gradually falls to the end. This is the most common pattern.

When to use:

• Statements that give facts or explanations
• Wh-questions (who, what, where, when, why, how)
• Commands
• Exclamations that express certainty

Examples:

2. Rising Intonation

The voice rises toward the end of the sentence.

When to use:

• Yes/no questions (questions that can be answered with yes or no)
• Sentences expressing uncertainty
• Lists (before the final item)

Examples:

3. Fall-Rise Intonation

The voice falls first, then rises slightly.

When to use:

• Expressing uncertainty
• Being polite
• Showing that the speaker has more to say
• Making contrasting points

Example:

• "I thought he was coming, but..." (voice falls on "coming" and rises slightly)

4. Rise-Fall Intonation

The voice rises sharply, then falls.

When to use:

• Expressing strong emotions like surprise, disbelief, or sarcasm
• Exclamatory sentences

Examples:

Quick Reference Table

What are Cohesive Devices?

Cohesive devices are words and phrases that connect ideas in your speech. They help your listener follow your thoughts smoothly from one point to the next. Without them, your speech sounds disjointed and hard to follow.

Types of Cohesive Devices

1. Additive Devices

Used to add information or ideas.

Words: also, and, too, furthermore, moreover, in addition

Example:

• "First, the event will start with an opening speech. Additionally, there will be performances to entertain the audience."

2. Contrastive Devices

Used to show differences or opposing ideas.

Words: however, although, though, but, yet, in contrast, on the other hand

Example:

• "The northern region experiences harsh winters. In contrast, the southern region enjoys mild and sunny winters."

3. Cause and Effect Devices

Used to show reasons and results.

Words: because, so, therefore, as a result, consequently, thus

Example:

• "People cut down trees for firewood. As a result, the forest began to shrink."

4. Sequential Devices

Used to order events or steps.

Words: first, then, next, finally, after that, subsequently

Example:

• "First, shake the mixture well. Then, heat it for five minutes. Finally, let it cool."

5. Clarifying Devices

Used to explain or give examples.

Words: for example, for instance, that is to say, in other words

Example:

• "Wildlife contributes to our economy. For instance, tourism brings in foreign currency."

When you give an oral presentation, you need to combine proper intonation with cohesive devices.

Worked Example

Topic: A school event announcement

Listen to how intonation and cohesive devices work together:

1. "Good morning, everyone!" (Falling intonation — command/greeting)
2. "I am happy to announce that Sports Day will be held next Friday." (Falling intonation — statement)
3. "Will you participate in the races?" (Rising intonation — yes/no question)
4. "First, we will have running races. Then, we will have jumping events. After that, we will have team games." (Falling intonation — sequential events)
5. "The winners will receive medals. Furthermore, they will get certificates." (Falling intonation — additive)
6. "Although it might rain, we will still have the event indoors." (Fall-rise intonation — contrast)
7. "What a wonderful day it will be!" (Rise-fall intonation — exclamation)

Identify the intonation type and cohesive device in each sentence:

In Tanzania, you use proper intonation and connected speech every day without realizing it. For example, when you announce the price of tomatoes at the market — "Tomatoes today are five thousand shillings per kilo, and the cabbages are three thousand" — you use falling intonation for statements and the additive device "and" to connect your ideas smoothly. This helps customers understand your prices clearly and keeps your business running well.