What is Speaking?

To speak, we create sounds using various parts of our body, including the lungs, vocal chords, vocal tract, tongue, teeth and lips.      So speaking is the delivery of language through the mouth. 

 

Speaking is the second of the four language skills, which are:
Listening
Speaking
Reading
Writing

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In our own language, speaking is normally the second language skill that we learn.
This voiced form of language usually requires at least one listener. When two or more people talk or speak to each other, it becomes a conversation which is called a "dialogue".    Speech can flow naturally from one person to another in the form of dialogue.    It can also be planned and trained, as in the delivery of a speech or presentation. Some people talk to themselves!    As a matter of fact, English learners can practise speaking standing alone in front of a mirror.

 

Speaking can be formal or informal:

 

Formal speaking takes place in business or academic situations, or whenever meeting people for the first time.

Informal speaking is ordinarily used with family, friends, or people you know well.

English learners can practise speaking online using voice or video chat and services like Skype.   They can also record and upload their voice for other people to listen to.