A Study of the Relation between Intonation and Sentence Structures of the English Speech

Intonation in English speech is an important research focus in English teaching. However, relatively less attention has been paid to the influence that sentence structures have on the use of intonation in English speeches. On the basis of Halliday's intonation theory, the present study investigated the relationship between intonation and sentence structures through mainly using Praat as well as Excel. Results showed that in complex sentences, speakers used more tone groups and marked tonicity than in simple sentences. However, Chinese students had more improper use of marked tonicity and tones in complex sentences compared to simple sentences. In order to improve the intonation in English speeches, it is necessary for Chinese students to have a better understanding of the meaning that the intonation can realize and the influence that sentence structures has on intonation.

Keywords: Intonation, EFL learners, sentence structure.