Speaking Formally and Professionally Portfolio
Formal and informal language are two different registers, or modes, for speaking or writing. In the world of work, it is important to speak professionally. As doctors, investment bankers, or historians present reports, they do so using formal English. They may also use a more serious tone of voice.
Most of the language you use as you speak is informal. When you talk to your friends, you naturally use contractions. Some of your sentences are incomplete, and others are run-ons. You may use slang terms you would never use when talking with adults. You may also change the tone of your voice based on your audience.
For a school or work presentation, your language should be formal. Formal language helps to show your topic is serious. Formal English features correct grammar, lacks contractions and slang, and minimizes idioms.
Noah wants his audience to take him seriously. He wants to appear professional as he presents his research. Here are some examples of statements Noah revised in his notes, making the language more formal:
Noah's Revisions
Informal English Formal English
You may know there's lots of Native American place names in our county. As you may know, there are many Native American place names in our county.
Lacrosse changed a bunch from when the eastern Woodlands tribes invented it. Lacrosse has changed a great deal since the eastern Woodland tribes invented it.
Back in the 1970s, the Oneida sued the county but didn't end up getting any rent for their land. In the 1970s, the Oneida sued the county, but they failed in their attempt to recover rent for their land.
Noah feels his changes make his presentation sound more professional and formal because he will be speaking in the appropriate register for his assignment. These changes give him more confidence as he prepares to present his research to a group. Noah also reminds himself to use a serious tone of voice when speaking.
As you prepare to present your own research, the rubric here will help you to assess your presentation. Read it carefully to see how well you are following the rules for presenting research.
Research Presentation Portfolio Rubric
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When presenting research in a formal setting, it is important to use formal language to convey professionalism and seriousness. This means avoiding contractions, slang, and idioms, and ensuring correct grammar is used. By speaking in a formal register, you are showing your audience that you take your topic seriously and are credible in your research.
Noah's revisions in his presentation notes exemplify the changes he made to ensure his language was formal. By making these adjustments, Noah was able to enhance the professionalism of his presentation and boost his confidence in delivering the information.
As you prepare your own research presentation, it is important to assess your language and tone to ensure they are appropriate for the setting. Use the Research Presentation Portfolio Rubric as a guide to evaluate your presentation and make any necessary refinements to your language and tone.
Overall, speaking formally and professionally in a research presentation is a key component of effectively communicating your ideas and establishing credibility with your audience. By using formal language and a serious tone, you can enhance the professionalism of your presentation and leave a lasting impression on your listeners.