EXPRESSING SURPRISE

Summary

This engaging lesson explores expressions of surprise, highlighting their significance in everyday communication. The instructor introduces eight powerful synonyms for surprise, such as 'aghast,' 'amazed,' and 'blown away,' each accompanied by illustrative examples. Additionally, the importance of intonation patterns in conveying surprise is emphasized, with techniques like rise and fall, strong rise, and strong slow fall explained. The lesson encourages learners to practice these expressions and intonation to enhance their communication skills, making interactions more dynamic and expressive.

Takeaways

• 😀 The lesson focuses on expressions of surprise commonly used in daily life.
• 😀 Students are encouraged to recall recent surprises to engage with the topic.
• 😀 Eight powerful synonyms for 'surprise' are introduced to express varying levels of surprise.
• 😀 'Aghast' denotes overwhelming shock, especially in negative contexts.
• 😀 'Amazed' signifies great surprise or wonder, indicating a stronger reaction than 'surprised.'
• 😀 'Astonished' is similar to 'amazed' and conveys unexpected surprise.
• 😀 'Astounded' is an even stronger expression, often leaving one speechless.
• 😀 'Flabbergasted' indicates being overwhelmed by astonishment or unexpected behavior.
• 😀 'Startled' describes unexpected shock in sudden situations.
• 😀 'Blown away' conveys being greatly impressed or excited by something.

Q & A

What is the primary topic of the lesson?

The primary topic of the lesson is expressions of surprise and synonyms for the word 'surprise' that can convey different emotional intensities.

How does the instructor define 'surprise'?

The instructor defines 'surprise' as an emotional response that can be triggered by unexpected events or encounters, which can vary in intensity from big to small.

Can you list some situations that might evoke surprise?

Situations that might evoke surprise include unexpectedly bumping into someone, receiving an unexpected gift, or coming home to a clean house after a long week.

What is the first synonym for 'surprise' discussed in the lesson?

The first synonym discussed is 'aghast,' which describes being struck with overwhelming shock and is typically used in negative contexts.

What is the difference between 'amazed' and 'astonished'?

'Amazed' indicates a feeling of wonder and is often used for positive surprises, while 'astonished' conveys a greater intensity of surprise, often implying something unexpected.

What does the term 'flabbergasted' mean?

'Flabbergasted' means to be overcome with astonishment or amazement, often due to extraordinary or inappropriate behavior.

What does the instructor say about the importance of intonation when expressing surprise?

The instructor emphasizes that intonation patterns are crucial for conveying surprise effectively. Different patterns can express varying emotions, such as disbelief or strong reactions.

What are the three intonation patterns mentioned in the lesson?

The three intonation patterns mentioned are: rise and fall, strong rise, and strong slow fall, each serving a specific purpose in expressing surprise.

How does the instructor encourage students to practice the new vocabulary?

The instructor encourages students to create their own sentences using the new synonyms and intonation patterns, suggesting they practice these expressions in real-life situations.

What is the overall goal of this lesson on surprise expressions?

The overall goal is to equip students with a richer vocabulary and effective communication skills to express different levels of surprise in their daily conversations.