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(Comprehension (Section B))

Tone, mood & attitude

Understanding Tone, Mood & Attitude in Comprehension

What Are Tone, Mood, and Attitude?

In comprehension, understanding the tone, mood, and attitude of a passage is crucial for grasping the implied meanings and emotions conveyed by the writer.

  • Tone: The writer's attitude towards the subject or audience. It can be formal, informal, serious, humorous, etc.
  • Attitude: The perspective or opinion the writer holds towards the subject. It reflects their feelings and beliefs.
  • Mood: The atmosphere or emotional setting created by the text. It affects how the reader feels.

Identifying Tone, Mood, and Attitude

To identify these elements, pay attention to:

  • Word Choice: Specific words can convey different emotions and attitudes.
  • Sentence Structure: Short, abrupt sentences might convey urgency or anger, while long, flowing sentences might suggest calmness or reflection.
  • Punctuation: Exclamation marks, question marks, and ellipses can influence the tone and mood.

Examples of Tone, Mood, and Attitude

Example 1: "The sun set slowly, casting a warm glow over the tranquil village."

  • Tone: Calm and peaceful
  • Mood: Serene
  • Attitude: Appreciation for nature's beauty

Example 2: "He slammed the door, his face red with anger."

  • Tone: Aggressive
  • Mood: Tense
  • Attitude: Frustration or anger

Worked Example

Read the following passage and identify the tone, mood, and attitude:

"The rain poured down relentlessly, drumming on the roof like a thousand tiny hammers. Inside, she sat alone, her thoughts as grey as the stormy sky."

Tuity Tip

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Context Clues: Use context to help determine tone and mood. Look for descriptive words and phrases.

Practice: Regularly practice by reading different texts and identifying these elements to improve your comprehension skills.

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