Say THIS using different voices
Say the word "THIS" using different voices: whisper, loud, high, low, robot, and excited; record or perform to explore vocal expression.
Step-by-step guide to Say THIS using different voices
Step 1
Choose a quiet spot to practice.
Step 2
Bring your mirror and any props to the spot.
Step 3
Stand in front of the mirror.
Step 4
Take three deep breaths to relax your voice.
Step 5
Whisper the word "THIS" three times with a very soft voice.
Step 6
Say the word "THIS" loudly three times with strong energy.
Step 7
Say the word "THIS" three times in a high squeaky voice.
Step 8
Say the word "THIS" three times in a deep low voice.
Step 9
Say the word "THIS" three times like a robot using short clipped tones.
Step 10
Say the word "THIS" three times with big excited energy and a smile.
Step 11
Choose your favorite version from the ones you just tried.
Step 12
Perform your favorite version for a friend or record it if you want.
Step 13
Share your finished recording or a description of your favorite performance on DIY.org
Help!?
What can we use if we don't have a mirror or special props called for in the instructions?
If you don't have a mirror or props, use your phone's front camera or a shiny spoon to stand in front of while you practice and a stuffed animal or household object as a prop and use your phone to record.
I'm having trouble changing pitch or my voice feels strained during the whisper/high/deep/robot steps—what should I try?
If your voice strains or you can't change pitch during the whisper, loud, squeaky, deep, or robot exercises, pause and repeat the 'Take three deep breaths' step, stand in front of the mirror to watch your mouth shape, and record short attempts on your phone to compare and rest between tries.
How can this activity be adapted for much younger children or older kids?
For toddlers, simplify to two versions (soft whisper and big excited) and use a favorite toy as the audience while standing in front of the mirror, and for older kids add vocal warm-ups, character backstories for each voice, or record a multi-voice performance to share.
How can we extend or personalize the activity after choosing our favorite version to perform or record?
After choosing your favorite version, personalize it by adding props or a costume, writing a short two-line script around the word 'THIS', filming different camera angles, and uploading the final clip or a description to DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to Say THIS using different voices
Teaching Kids How to Understand and Use Tone of Voice
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Teaching Kids How to Understand and Use Tone of Voice
Tone of Voice Lesson for Kids: It's Not WHAT You Say, It's HOW Your Say It
Tone Matters! How we say it is more important that the words we use
Facts about vocal expression for kids
🤫 Whispering is made with turbulent airflow and little to no vocal cord vibration — that’s why it sounds breathy and secret-like.
🔊 Speaking loudly uses more breath and makes your vocal cords work harder, which is why yelling can make your throat tired.
🎵 Pitch is how high or low a voice sounds; changing pitch makes the same word (like "THIS") feel surprised, scary, or silly.
🤖 Robot voices are usually monotone with electronic effects — you can mimic one by speaking flatly and adding a buzzy sound.
😃 Excited voices are often faster, higher, and louder, so people can usually tell you’re excited almost instantly.
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