Oral: Rising Tone – SS2 English Lesson Note (Second Term)

The rising tune is indicated with an arrow pointing upwards (/). It is used to indicate a rise in the pitch of the voice. Its uses are:

1. To ask polar questions- These are questions that require yes or no as the answer. Examples: 

• Is English your best subject? /
• Are you going to take the job? /

2. To make requests:

• Close that door, please. /
• Could you give me your biro? /

3. To make polite statements:

• Please don’t be offended. /
• Come in, please /  

4. To make protest:

• We do not want him here again. /
• I shall not eat anymore. /

5. For greetings:

• Good morning /
• Good afternoon /

6. For listing items:

• We need some rice /, beans /, fish /and meat.\
• There are five items in the shop. They are cups/, bags/, chairs/, books/, and tins/.

7. In utterances showing indifference: 

• You can do what you want. /
• If you want to. /