Module 2 Essays

MODULE 2 ESSAYS

Requirements :

• Standard English and Creoles
• Characteristics of Language
• Variation in Language + Reasons
• Purposes of Language
• Registers
• Attitudes to Language
• Communicative Behaviors

Standard English and Creoles should be known from either textbooks or teacher's notes.

CHARACTERISTICS OF LANGUAGE (the ones needed for the essay)

1. Symbolic - words used as symbols of ideas. Vocabulary is based on the needs of the society that employs the language. The language must be understand amongst all the speakers in the society, for it to be effective as a means of communication.
2. Systematic - the structure of the language, which is the grammar and rules that define how the language is to be used.

NOTE:   this is important when identifying the difference between Standard English and Creoles/dialects.

VARIATION IN LANGUAGES  + REASONS

Each language has differences in :

1. Words Used
2. Structure
3. Sentence Length
4. Articulation of Words
5. Completion of the Spoken Word
6. Non - Verbal Communication

These are all based around the relationship between the two individuals conversing.

The Reasons for these variations being present are :

1. Audience -               who is being addressed
2. Subject Matter -       topic of focus
3. Medium -                 means of communication
4. Attitude of Writer - personal feeling upon the topic displayed by writer

NOTE: These should be taken into consideration when analyzing the piece.

PURPOSES

1. Expressive - emotional and focused on the speaker / writer.
2. Informative - all the words are used in context to give specific information to direct the reader.
3. Reflective - focused on analyzing the past and uses memories.
4. Poetic - language is stylistic or imaginative to pleasure the reader.
5. Phatic - simply establishes contact among persons without seeking a response.
6. Metalinguistic - use of language to discuss language.

REGISTERS

Formality of Language.

It is conveyed by word choice and style and structure used.

1. Frozen - for print purposes, where no direct response from the reader is expected
2. Formal - used in socially formal contexts
3. Consultative - a supply of extra information, under the assumption that is is essential for full comprehension.
4. Casual - used in dialogues between friends or any other persons who can be spoken to with slang (acquaintances).
5.  Intimate - communication between people who are close (relationship-wise) and it conveys personal thoughts and feelings.

ATTITUDES TO LANGUAGE

Refers to how an individual feels about the language spoken.

1. Positive - has pride in and enjoys the language spoken
2. Negative - does not enjoy the language being spoken, feels ashamed.

COMMUNICATIVE BEHAVIORS

Ways in which an individual acts that will add to the meaning of the message.

1. Vocalics - use of volume, pitch and tone in voice.
2. Proxemics - use of space (either free space or personal space or space amongst persons)
3. Artifacts - use of objects (objects includes clothing)
4. Movement + Facial Expression - gestures, eye contact and other motions .
5. Chronemic - use of time (as in how long the speech is or otherwise).

NOTE : There is often a question which states : 

                " Suggest how a video presentation would make this piece easier to understand . "

              

Communicative Behaviors and Registers are usually a good way to answer.