Topic Five (1.5): Prosodic and Paralinguistic Features

Introduction Icon.png Introduction

In addition to what we say in conversation, how we say it and the features that accompany the words we use, are both very important indicators of meaning. A sarcastic tone for example, can completely change the meaning of a compliment someone gives to you. Paralinguistic features are those elements of communication that occur alongside speech, e.g. gestures, facial expressions and body language. Prosodic features relate to how we speak – i.e. the tone, speed, pitch, stress and intonation we use. These are sometimes indicated in transcripts and can inform how we understand speakers’ meanings. In this topic, you will learn about both kinds of feature and when we use them.

Read & Make Notes Icon.png Read and Make Notes

Read pages 270 to 272 in the Gould and Rankin textbook and make notes.

Skills Icon.png Tasks

  • The following resources build on what you have read. Use them to add to your notes:

EXPLORE – Paralinguistic Features (Grammar.com) Links to an external site.

LISTEN – Non-Verbal Communication (BBC) Links to an external site.

  • Complete Activity 3.
  • For part 3, have a conversation with a friend or family member (this could be online or in person).
  • Copy down the diagram on page 272.

Stretch Icon.png Stretch Activity

Complete the ‘Think Like a Hollywood or Bollywood Screenplay Writer’ task on page 272.

Consolidate Icon.png Consolidate

Now complete the self-assessment checklist on page 272.

Glossary Icon.png Terminology

Make sure you understand all the key terms covered in this topic. You may like to make flashcards of key terms now, to help you with revision later on.