sentence. Note that the basic meaning of the sentence does not undergo any change. Look at the following example. I gave her an apple yesterday.
See how the sentence gains in meaning by changing the stress from one word to another. I gave her an apple yesterday. (Only I gave, not somebody else) I gave her an apple yesterday. (gave, not bought) I gave her an apple yesterday.
(her and not somebody else) I gave her an apple yesterday. (apple not banana) I gave her an apple yesterday . (yesterday, not any other time) 12th Communicative English Book.indb Page Activity: a. Read the following sentences aloud stressing on different words.
. I told you to buy me a bunch of flowers. . I told you to buy me a bunch of flowers.
. I told you to buy me a bunch of flowers. . I told you to buy me a bunch of flowers.
. I told you to buy me a bunch of flowers. . I told you to buy me a bunch of flowers.
. I told you to buy me a bunch of flowers . b. Role play this dialogue stressing on the highlighted words.
Babu : Sara , I’m home ! Sara : Hi daddy! How was your day at work ? Babu : It was great !
I finished the project successfully. . Sara : That’s great ! Congratulations !
I’m really happy . Babu : I have to go to Madurai this weekend so I won’t be able to meet your friends , when they come here on Friday . Sorry to let you down dear . Sara : You’re sorry ?
You’re sorry ?!?! I’m afraid “ sorry ” isn’t good enough. I’ve already told them you will be home ! Babu : I know , I know .
And I am sorry about it. But as long as you have the chance to see them it’s good, right? Sara : Fine. But we’re going to meet them next Friday .
No excuses. Babu : Sure , definitely . INTONATION Intonation