Grammar: Direct Speech – Basic 6 English Lesson Note (First Term)

What is Direct Speech?

Direct speech shows the exact words someone spoke, using quotation marks.

Rules for Direct Speech:

1. Use quotation marks (” “) around spoken words
2. Start spoken words with a capital letter
3. Put punctuation inside quotation marks
4. Use reporting verbs (said, asked, replied, shouted)

Examples:

• John said, “I am going home.”
• “Where is my book?” asked Mary.
• The teacher shouted, “Keep quiet!”
• “Please help me,” she requested.

Punctuation in Direct Speech:

• Statement: He said, “I like football.”
• Question: She asked, “Are you coming?”
• Exclamation: They shouted, “We won the match!”

Exercise D – Direct Speech Practice

Part 1: Add quotation marks and correct punctuation:

1. The headmaster said the assembly will start at 8 o’clock
2. Are you feeling better asked the nurse
3. Please pass the salt said mother
4. I have finished my work replied the student

Part 2: Rewrite using direct speech:

1. Tunde told his friend that he was sick. → Tunde said to his friend, “_________________”
2. The teacher asked the class to open their books. → The teacher said, “_________________”
3. Kemi informed her mother that she had won a prize. → Kemi said to her mother, “_________________”