NCEA Level 2 Lea Faka-Tonga key terms

The relationship between sounds and their meanings in a language, and the study of how speakers use language appropriately in social situations. In NCEA tasks it covers register, idiom, and implied meaning.

The way spoken words carry meaning beyond the literal, including tone, pitch, stress, and pace. Candidates identify how a speaker's voice signals feeling, doubt, or emphasis in listening passages.

Placing stress on a particular syllable or word so it stands out. Stress can change meaning in Tongan, so listeners use it to pick out the key information a speaker intends.

The voice or sound produced when speaking, including its volume, quality, and clarity. In listening assessments, noting changes in le'o helps a candidate judge mood and intent.

An explanation or account of something, often given orally to inform an audience. Candidates listen for the main idea, supporting details, and the order of points in a spoken fakamatala.

The structure or organisation of a text or speech, such as an opening, body, and conclusion. Recognising fokotu'utu'u helps candidates follow the flow of a listening passage and predict what comes next.

A supporting point, reason, or detail that backs up a main idea. In listening and reading tasks, candidates separate poupou from the main point and check whether each example is relevant.

The main theme, topic, or message of a text or spoken passage. Identifying the kaveinga is usually the first step in comprehension questions before details are examined.

To make something clear or explain it plainly, often by giving examples. A speaker may fakata'ataa a difficult point so listeners can follow the argument without confusion.

The meaning or sense of a word, phrase, or statement. Candidates explain the faka'uhinga of key expressions and show how context shapes what a speaker or writer intends.

A speech of thanks or acknowledgement, often formal, given at gatherings such as weddings, funerals, or church events. It follows set conventions of greeting, gratitude, and closing.

Respectful, formal language used with elders, chiefs, and in official settings. Speaking tasks expect candidates to choose this register appropriately and avoid casual vocabulary in formal contexts.

Respect shown through language, gesture, and behaviour, especially toward elders, titled people, and visitors. In speaking assessments, faka'apa'apa shapes word choice, tone, and how a candidate opens and closes a talk.

An introduction or opening section of a speech or piece of writing that sets the topic and greets the audience. A strong talateu states the purpose and signals the structure that follows.

The conclusion or closing part of a speech or text. It usually restates the main message, thanks the audience, and ends with an appropriate formal farewell.

Speech that is clear, well organised, and suited to the audience and purpose. Candidates are judged on whether their spoken Tongan is coherent, accurate, and easy for listeners to follow.

A personal account or talk in which a speaker describes their own experience, opinions, or plans. It uses first-person forms and everyday vocabulary linked to family, school, and community life.

Conversation or dialogue between two or more people, involving turn-taking, questions, and responses. Speaking tasks often require candidates to sustain a fetalanoa'aki on a familiar topic.

A question asked to seek information or keep a conversation going. Candidates form fehu'i using correct question words, word order, and polite forms in interactive speaking tasks.

An answer or response given to a question or invitation. A good tali addresses the question directly, uses appropriate register, and adds relevant detail rather than a one-word reply.

To explain or describe something in speech or writing, giving reasons and detail. Candidates fakamatala'i a process, opinion, or event so the audience understands the sequence and the reasons behind it.

A short written text such as a notice, message, or brief report that conveys key information concisely. Candidates write these with a clear purpose, correct format, and no unnecessary words.

A formal letter or written report addressed to a person or organisation, following conventions of greeting, body, and closing. It requires accurate grammar, paragraphing, and appropriate formal vocabulary.

A general statement or overview that summarises a topic before details are given. Writers use it to frame a text so readers understand the purpose and scope of what follows.

Punctuation and written conventions such as full stops, commas, and quotation marks that guide the reader. Correct use of these marks is part of the accuracy criteria in writing tasks.

To revise, edit, or give back a piece of writing with corrections. In writing tasks, fakafoki means checking grammar, spelling, and structure before submitting a final draft.

A text that compares or contrasts two things, such as places, customs, or experiences. It uses linking words and balanced paragraphs to show similarities and differences clearly.

A text about local or community matters, such as village events, church activities, or family occasions. Reading these builds vocabulary for everyday Tongan life and cultural expectations.

A text in which the writer explains inner thoughts, feelings, or reflections on an experience. Readers identify the writer's attitude from word choice and the way events are described.

A narrative or story text that recounts events in time order, often with characters and a setting. Readers track the sequence of events and the writer's purpose in telling the story.

A text that presents an opinion or argument supported by reasons. Readers distinguish the writer's position from the evidence offered and judge whether the reasoning is convincing.

A text dealing with rules, obligations, or official matters, often written in formal language. Readers identify requirements, conditions, and consequences stated in the text.

A text about cultural practices, traditions, and values, such as faikava, koloa, or funeral customs. Reading these texts requires cultural knowledge as well as language skills.

A text that explains how something works or how a process is carried out, often in steps. Readers follow sequence markers and technical vocabulary to understand the procedure.

A summary or concluding text that draws together the main points of a longer piece. It restates the key message without introducing new detail and often gives a final comment.

A text about buying, selling, or exchanging goods and services, such as an advertisement or price list. Readers extract specific information such as cost, quantity, and conditions.

A text that announces or advertises something to an audience, such as an event notice or poster. Readers identify the purpose, audience, and key details such as time and place.

A descriptive text that portrays a person, place, or thing in detail so the reader can picture it. It relies on precise adjectives and sensory vocabulary rather than plot.