TOPIC: Direct Speech - JSS2 English language Lesson Note

Topic: Direct Speech Lesson Note

Introduction to Direct Speech:
Direct speech provides a verbatim representation of the words spoken by an individual, commonly found in literature to convey the exact dialogue of characters.

Examples of Direct Speech:

1. Reporting Verb Before the Spoken Words:
   - Original: "Monica said, ‘There's nothing we can do about it.’"
   - Updated: "Monica stated, ‘There's nothing we can do about it.’"

2. Reporting Verb After the Spoken Words:
   - Original: "‘There is nothing we can do about it,’ Monica said."
   - Updated: "‘There is nothing we can do about it,’ Monica affirmed."

3. Reporting Verb at a Natural Pause Inside the Reported Sentence:
   - Original: "‘It’s no good,’ Monica said, ‘we’ll just have to ask for help.’"
   - Updated: "‘It’s no good,’ Monica remarked, ‘we’ll just have to seek assistance.’"

Key Points about Direct Speech:

- Definition: Direct speech is the precise quotation of the speaker's actual words.
- Enclosure: Direct speech is enclosed within quotation marks or speech marks.
- Reporting Verb: Reporting verbs (e.g., "said," "asked," "replied") are commonly used to introduce direct speech.

Examples of Direct Speech in Various Contexts:

1. Assertive Sentences (Statements):
   - Original: "Tom said, 'I have a dog.'"
   - Updated: "Tom asserted, 'I have a dog.'"

2. Interrogative Sentences (Questions):
   - Original: "The man said to him, 'What is your name?'"
   - Updated: "The man inquired, 'What is your name?'"

3. Imperative Sentences (Commands or Requests):
   - Original: "Mother told me, 'Do your homework.'"
   - Updated: "Mother instructed, 'Do your homework.'"

4. Exclamatory Sentences (Expressing Emotions):
   - Original: "The boys said, 'Hurray! We won the match.'"
   - Updated: "The boys exclaimed, 'Hurray! We won the match.'"