SUBJECT: ENGLISH LANGUAGE

CLASS: SS 1

TOPIC: DICTATION AND SPEECH WRITING

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PART 1: DICTATION

1.1 Definition and Purpose

Dictation is the process of writing down words, phrases, or passages as they are being read aloud by another person. In Senior Secondary school, dictation aims to:

• Improve listening skills.
• Enhance spelling accuracy.
• Master the use of punctuation marks.
• Increase vocabulary retention.

1.2 Tips for Effective Dictation

1. Listen First: Listen to the whole sentence before you start writing.
2. Context Clues: Use the context of the sentence to distinguish between homophones (e.g., their vs. there, principal vs. principle).
3. Punctuation: Listen for pauses. A short pause usually indicates a comma, while a long pause indicates a full stop.
4. Review: Always read through your work at the end to check for missing words.

1.3 Practice Exercise (For the Teacher/Student)

Teacher reads the following passage at a moderate pace:

"The curriculum of the Nigerian educational system is designed to foster academic excellence and entrepreneurial skills. Students must show commitment to their studies to overcome strenuous challenges. Furthermore, the maintenance of discipline is essential for a conducive learning environment."

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PART 2: SPEECH WRITING

2.1 General Features of a Speech

A speech is a formal or informal talk delivered to an audience. Unlike an essay, a speech is meant to be heard, not just read.

Key Features:

1. The Title: Usually written in capital letters (e.g., A SPEECH DELIVERED BY...).
2. The Vocatives (Salutation/Protocol): Acknowledging the dignitaries present in order of importance.
3. The Introduction: Captures attention and states the purpose of the speech.
4. The Body: Contains the main points, developed in paragraphs.
5. The Conclusion: Summarizes the message and leaves a lasting impression.
6. The Closing: A "Thank you for listening" or "God bless you" statement.

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2.2 Specific Types of Speeches (Samples)

A. The Welcome Address

Purpose: To formally greet guests at the beginning of an event.

Sample: Welcome Address for an Inter-house Sports Competition

A WELCOME ADDRESS DELIVERED BY THE PRINCIPAL OF EXCEL COLLEGE ON THE OCCASION OF THE 10TH ANNUAL INTER-HOUSE SPORTS COMPETITION ON 15TH MARCH, 2024.

The Chairman of the Occasion, The Special Guest of Honour, Members of the Parents Teachers Association, Fellow Staff and My Dear Students, Ladies and Gentlemen.

It is with great joy that I welcome you all to our 10th Annual Inter-house Sports Competition. Today is not just about winning medals; it is about celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship and physical fitness.

We have prepared our students to compete fairly and showcase their talents. I urge all athletes to play by the rules and all spectators to cheer with decorum.

Once again, you are all welcome. I wish us a successful and injury-free competition.

Thank you and God bless.

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B. Prize Giving Day Speech

Purpose: To celebrate achievements and encourage students to strive for excellence.

Sample: Speech by the Best Graduating Student

A SPEECH DELIVERED BY MASTER CHIDI OKEKE, THE BEST GRADUATING STUDENT, AT THE 2023 PRIZE GIVING DAY CEREMONY.

The Principal, Distinguished Guests, Dedicated Teachers, Proud Parents and my fellow Students.

Standing here today fills me with immense pride. This prize is not just a reflection of my hard work, but a testament to the dedication of our teachers and the sacrifices of our parents.

To my fellow students, I want to say that excellence is not a destination but a journey. Do not be discouraged by failure; instead, let it be the fuel that drives you to work harder.

I am honored to receive this award and I promise to keep the flag of this great school flying high.

Thank you all for your support.

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C. The Wedding Toast

Purpose: To congratulate the couple, share a brief light-hearted story, and wish them well. The tone is semi-formal and warm.

Sample: Toast to the Groom by the Best Man

Ladies and Gentlemen, please join me in raising a glass to the man of the hour, Segun.

I have known Segun since our university days. He has always been a man of integrity, though I must admit, he wasn't always this well-dressed! When he met Amaka, we all saw a change in him. She brings out the best in him, and seeing them together today makes me believe in true love.

Segun and Amaka, may your home be filled with laughter, patience, and endless joy.

To the Bride and Groom! (Audience responds: To the Bride and Groom!)

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PART 3: EXERCISES FOR STUDENTS

Exercise 1: Vocabulary & Spelling (Dictation Prep)

Find the meaning of the following words and learn their spellings for a dictation test:

1. Protocol
2. Dignitaries
3. Sportsmanship
4. Excellence
5. Occasion
6. Appreciation
7. Achievement
8. Sincerity

Exercise 2: Speech Writing (Practice)

Choose one of the following prompts and write a speech of not less than 200 words:

1. Welcome Address: You are the Senior Prefect of your school. Write a welcome address to be delivered during the orientation ceremony for the newly admitted JSS1 students.
2. Prize Giving: As the Chairperson of the P.T.A., write a speech to be delivered on the school's Prize Giving Day, encouraging parents to invest more in their children's education.
3. Wedding Toast: You are the Maid of Honour at your elder sister’s wedding. Write a toast wishing her and her husband a happy married life.

Exercise 3: Features Identification

List four (4) essential features of a formal speech and explain the importance of the "Vocatives" (Salutation).