Statement/Tag Questions and Responses - JSS1 English Language Lesson Note

Introduction:
Statement and tag questions are important components of English grammar. They are used to confirm information, seek clarification, or engage in conversation. Understanding how to form and respond to statement and tag questions is essential for effective communication.

Statement Questions:
   - A statement question is a type of question that seeks confirmation or agreement with a statement.
   - It is formed by stating a statement and adding a question tag at the end.
   - Example: "You're coming to the party, aren't you?"
   
Tag Questions:
   - A tag question is a short question added to the end of a statement to confirm information or seek agreement.
   - It consists of an auxiliary verb and a pronoun.
   - Example: "She is going to the market, isn't she?"

Formation of Tag Questions:
   - Positive statement → Negative tag question
     Example: "You like ice cream, don't you?"
   - Negative statement → Positive tag question
     Example: "She isn't feeling well, is she?"

Responses  to Tag Questions 
   - Agreement:
     - If the statement is true, the response to the tag question is "Yes."
     Example: "You are tired, aren't you?" Response: "Yes, I am."
   - Disagreement:
     - If the statement is false, the response to the tag question is "No."
     Example: "She didn't finish her homework, did she?" Response: "No, she didn't."

The Use of Intonation:
   - Rising intonation is used when seeking confirmation or agreement.
   - Falling intonation is used when the speaker is confident about the information.
   Example: "You're coming to the game, aren't you?" (rising intonation)

6. **Practice Exercises:**
   - Formulate tag questions for given statements.
   - Engage in role-playing activities where students practice responding to tag questions with appropriate intonation.
   - Create dialogues incorporating statement and tag questions for pairs or small groups to practice.

In understanding statement and tag questions is essential for effective communication in English. By mastering the formation and response to these types of questions, students can engage in meaningful conversations and clarify information with confidence. Regular practice and reinforcement of these concepts will enhance students' language skills and fluency.