Meaningful Examples of Formal vs Informal Language

We may not realize it, but we are constantly adapting the way we speak according to the social situation we find ourselves in. We use professional language at work, conversational language with our friends and family, and might even attempt the newest slang with our students! 

With this in mind, it’s important that our students understand when and where it is appropriate to use different forms of the English language. To help with this, Teach Starter has created this formal vs informal language sorting activity. The resource contains 24 sentence cards that students must read and sort according to the type of language used. There are six language subcategories featured in the resource (more about these below).

This formal vs informal language sorting activity downloads as a full-color PDF or editable Google Slides file. It contains:

• Instruction page
• 6 x sort headings 
• 24 statement cards
• Recording sheet
• Answer key 

Formal or Informal Language: What’s the Difference?

This resource focuses on six different types of formal and informal language. While definitely not a definitive list, learning about these six language subgroups will help your students further understand the nuances in the use of conversational English and how these are used in different social situations.

The subcategories of formal and informal language used in this resource are as follows:

Formal Language Types

• Professional – Clear and respectful language used in the workplace 
• Polite – Kind and respectful language used to show good manners
• Ceremonial – Fixed language used in official speeches, ceremonies and traditions

Informal Language Types

• Conversational – Casual and natural language used in everyday speaking
• Colloquial – Informal expressions commonly used in a specific region or culture
• Slang – Words or phrases used by specific groups that may go out of style quickly

Engaging with this resource will familiarize your students with these six subcategories as they think critically about which type of language is being used in each example sentence.

Download to Teach Formal and Informal Language

Use the Download button to access your preferred version of this sorting activity. You will be prompted to make a copy of the Google Slides file before accessing it.

Print the resource on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

This resource was created by Brittany Collins, a teacher in Indiana and a Teach Starter collaborator.

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