Everyday English 1

Volume

Speaking at the right volume is also very important if you want to get your message across. Whispering to a large group in a big hall would be as unsuitable as shouting at someone who is right next to you.

Activity 6 Speaking at the right volume

Allow about 5 minutes

Note down occasions when it may be necessary to speak fairly loudly and occasions when you can speak quietly.

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Discussion

Compare your answers to these:

Times when you have to speak loudly

When asking a question after someone has given a presentation.
When giving instructions to a group of children.
When speaking to someone with machinery noise in the background.
When speaking to someone and there’s loud music playing.

Times when you have to speak quietly

When sitting close to someone.
When you don’t want other people to overhear.
When you are in a place where everyone is quiet, like a doctor’s waiting room.
When someone else is asleep.

You need to be able to raise your voice when speaking in a large room or when a number of people are listening. You may be the sort of person who feels very nervous about speaking to a group of people. Perhaps you’ve never had to do this. There may well be a day when you do have to, though, and there are some practical things you can do to help yourself sound confident. One is speaking loudly enough!

OpenLearn - Everyday English 1
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