English // Vocabulary

Choosing Formal Vocabulary

Distinguish between formal and informal vocabulary, selecting words appropriate for formal speech and writing such as 'discover' instead of 'find out' and 'request' instead of 'ask for'

Ages
10 to 11
Type
Language
Builds on
1 topic
Leads to
4 topics
Standards
1 code

Quick check

When the learner is writing something formal — like a letter or a report — do they choose more sophisticated words, like "enquire" instead of "ask" or "sufficient" instead of "enough"?

Ask this to see whether the topic is secure.

Topic // Mastery

What mastery looks like

What a learner can do once this topic is secure.
  • Replace informal words with formal equivalents in a given text
  • Identify formal vocabulary choices in official letters and reports
  • Write the same message twice using formal vocabulary for a letter and informal vocabulary for a text message

Topic // Map

Where this fits

What to learn first and what this topic opens up, with the reason for each link. Required links come first.
  • RequiredMust come first
  • HelpfulHelps, but not essential

Before this

1 topic

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Choosing Formal Vocabulary

Ages 10 to 11 // Language

Leads to

4 topics
  • Adapting Speech to ContextRequired

    Speaking & Listening // Ages 10 to 11

    Adapting speech builds on formal vocabulary

  • Standard EnglishRequired

    Grammar & Punctuation // Ages 11 to 13

    Register awareness extends KS2 formal vs informal vocabulary

  • Academic VocabularyRequired

    Vocabulary // Ages 11 to 14

    Academic vocabulary deployment extends KS2 formal vs informal vocabulary

  • Advanced Maths VocabularyHelpful

    Mathematics // Mathematical Thinking // Ages 10 to 11

    Cross-subject: communicating with mathematical precision at ages 10-11 benefits from understanding formal vs informal vocabulary register

Topic // Standards

Curriculum standards

Codes for the curriculum statements this topic maps to. Each publisher owns its standard text.
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document
Eng.App2.Y6.Word.1

English // Vocabulary

More in Vocabulary

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