Direct Speech
VC2E4LA12 · Language · Conventions of Language
explore how quoted (direct) and reported (indirect) speech are used
1. Learning goal
Parent-friendly goal:
Use direct and reported speech for different purposes.
2. What your child needs to know
- Direct speech quotes the exact words: "I need a ruler," said Leo.
- Reported speech tells what was said without exact words: Leo said that he needed a ruler.
- Reported speech usually does not use quotation marks.
3. Simple explanation
Direct speech can make a story feel lively. Reported speech can summarise what someone said.
Speech Switch
4. Examples
Direct
"The bus is late," said Isla.
Reported
Isla said that the bus was late.
5. Worked example
Change direct to reported speech
- Remove the quotation marks.
- Use a reporting verb such as said or explained.
- Add that if it helps the sentence flow.
- Change pronouns and tense if needed.
6. Common mistakes
- Keeping quotation marks around reported speech.
- Forgetting to change I to he, she or they.
- Changing the meaning while reporting.
7. Parent teaching tips
- Ask your child to retell something a family member said.
- Compare which version sounds more dramatic: direct or reported.
8. Quick practice
Change to reported speech: "I like soccer," said Ben.
Answer: Ben said that he liked soccer.
The exact words are retold without quotation marks.
Which form uses quotation marks?
Answer: Direct speech.
Direct speech gives the exact words spoken.
9. Extension challenge
Write one event twice: once with direct speech and once using reported speech.