Here's a breakdown:
* Falling intonation (most common): The pitch of the voice starts at a certain level and gradually decreases as you speak, ending on a lower note. This conveys a sense of finality and completion.
* Example: "I went to the store." (The pitch drops at the end of the sentence)
* Rising intonation (less common): The pitch of the voice rises at the end of the sentence. This is typically used in questions, exclamations, or when a speaker is unsure of their statement.
* Example: "You went to the store?" (The pitch rises at the end of the sentence)
Important points to remember:
* Context: The correct intonation can also depend on the context of the conversation. For example, if a speaker is emphasizing a particular word, they may use a rising intonation on that word, even if it's in a statement.
* Regional variations: Different regions have slightly different intonation patterns. For example, some regions may use a more pronounced falling intonation, while others may have a more subtle drop in pitch.
* Emphasis: You can emphasize certain words or phrases by using a slightly higher pitch or a longer pause.
Practice:
The best way to learn correct intonation is to practice listening to native speakers and to pay attention to how they speak. You can also record yourself speaking and listen back to your own intonation.
Remember, intonation is a subtle aspect of language that takes time to master. Just keep practicing and you'll naturally start to pick up on the nuances of English intonation.