Formal and Informal English
Recognise and compare formal and informal uses of English, understanding that language choices vary based on audience, purpose and context
Suggested ages 7–10
Learning journey
Your child is learning how language changes depending on who they're speaking to and the situation, while exploring how words are connected through shared roots and parts.
Evidence of understanding
- Identify whether a spoken or written example uses formal or informal language (e.g., 'Dear Sir' vs 'Hey mate')
- Rewrite an informal sentence in a more formal way (e.g., change 'Can I have some?' to 'May I please have some?')
- Explain why formal language might be used in one situation and informal in another (e.g., a letter to the headteacher vs a note to a friend)
Assessment prompt
Does Formal and Informal English understand the difference between how they'd write a text to a friend versus a formal letter — and can they explain why the language would be different?
Standards alignment
L.2.3
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 2
L.2.3a
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 2
L.3.3b
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 3
L.4.3c
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 4
SL.4.6
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 4