Formal vs Informal Language
What language is considered the informal language in Jamaica?
Jamaican Creole or patois.
What is a polite way to make a request in formal English?
“Could you please…?” or “Would you mind…?”
What is code-switching?
Switching between language varieties depending on the situation.
What is a formal synonym for “help”?
Assist, aid, support, facilitate, enable, provide, relieve, or guide
What is one key feature of effective formal communication?
Clarity, politeness, structured language, or appropriate tone.
Give 2 examples of when formal language is required in real life
Job interviews, academic presentations, business meetings, official emails & more!
Give one example of how to disagree respectfully in a formal setting.
“I understand your point, but I would like to offer another perspective.”
"Respectfully, here's another option."
or any variation
Describe why code-switching is a valuable skill in Caribbean classrooms.
It allows individuals to communicate effectively across formal and informal settings, and better relate to a variety of students across cultures.
Provide three formal vocabulary words commonly used in professional communication.
Examples: “Facilitate,” “collaborate,” “implement,” “authorize,” “review" or anything similar.
Give one example of a formal closing statement in a meeting.
“Thank you for your time; I look forward to our next discussion.”
or anything similar.
What is the main difference between formal and informal language?
Formal language is structured and has strict grammar; informal language is casual and conversational.
What tone should you use in a formal email when addressing a supervisor or your boss?
Polite, professional, concise, respectful, and standardized English.
Code-switching is the ability to adjust your language based on the ___ and ___ of the situation.
environment/setting and audience
Give two formal vocabulary words that are commonly used in academic discussions.
Examples: evaluate, propose, clarify, implement, analyze etc.
Explain how tone and body language support formal communication.
A confident tone and respectful body language (eye contact, posture, calm voice) reinforce professionalism.
Explain why Jamaican Creole is often used informally but Standard English is preferred in formal settings.
Standard English is the more widely recognized language for professional, academic, and formal settings. Creole is considered culturally expressive but less standardized.
Explain the difference between sounding personable and sounding passive in a professional setting.
Polite language is respectful and clear; passive language is overly soft or hesitant and may weaken your message or authority.
Give a real-life scenario and explain how you would adjust your language from informal Creole to formal English or vice versa.
Examples:
Talking with friends → Creole;
Entering a meeting with supervisors → switch to Standard English
Or anything similar
The phrase “to work together” is often expressed formally as “to ___.”
collaborate
Respond formally to this prompt:
“You’re late to a meeting. How do you apologize professionally and explain yourself?”
“I sincerely apologize for the delay. I encountered an unexpected issue, but it has been resolved, and I am ready to begin.”
or anything similar.