Final answer:
The question addresses the difference between formal and informal tone in English writing, relevant for high school-level composition. Formal tone is used for academic writing and professional interaction, while informal tone fits personal communication and creative contexts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves distinguishing between formal and informal tone in writing, which is an important aspect of style and appropriate language use in English composition. In academic writing, an author's tone should be formal, utilizing advanced diction, proper syntax, and addressing the subject matter in a serious and structured manner. Conversely, informal tone is characterized by a more relaxed diction, conversational syntax, and often reflects personal speech or communication between familiar parties.
An example of a formal tone might involve complex sentence structures and advanced vocabulary, while an informal tone may include colloquialisms or slang. To determine the proper tone for a text, consider the context, purpose, and audience of the piece. Academic essays, for example, generally require a formal tone, whereas emails to friends or dialogue within creative writing can be informal.
Formal tone is expected in academic essays, professional correspondence, and situations requiring respectful, informative communication. In contrast, informal tone is suitable for personal messages, social media posts, and creative writing formats where conversational language is encouraged.