Practice Intonation: “Passage to Freedom”

Intonation is the rise and fall in the pitch or tone of your voice as you read aloud. Use this passage to practice reading with proper intonation. Print a copy of this passage from InsideNG.com to help you monitor your progress.

I said to my father, “If we don’t help them, won’t they die?”

With the entire family in agreement, I could tell a huge weight was lifted off my father’s shoulders. His voice was firm as he told us, “I will start helping these people.”

Outside, the crowd went quiet as my father spoke, with Borislav translating.

“I will issue visas to each and every one of you to the last. So, please wait patiently.”

The crowd stood frozen for a second. Then the refugees burst into cheers. Grown-ups embraced each other, and some reached to the sky. Fathers and mothers hugged their children. I was especially glad for the children.