Prosodic Features of Speech

• Volume determines the loudness or softness of one's tone. It is also an effective way of expressing emotions; such like surprise, fear, or anger.
• Pitch defines the "High" tones and "Low" tones of a voice and can be used to emphasize points in a sentence.
• Stress is when we emphasize a particular syllable in a word.
• Intonation are the rise and fall of the voice in speech.

  • Rising Intonation correlates with Yes/No Questions and Tag Questions.
  • Falling Intonation are used in Statements and WH Questions.
• Juncture is the "Pausing" or "Stopping" in a speech; shows emphasis. It also allows the listener to take in information or concepts.
• Rate of Speech is the tempo or speed; how fast or slow we talk.
• Projection considers the Loudness and Clarity of one's voice; good projection equates to good volume and it depends on proper breathing.