Chapter 3 :Chapter 3 Language and Communication


Chapter Objectives :Understand the power of language Identify the five functional competencies Recognize and address communication problems Understand that language reflects, builds on and determines context Chapter Objectives


Language :The system of symbols (words) that we use to think about and communicate experiences and feelings Language


The Nature of Language :Language is symbolic Words have multiple meanings Denotative meanings Connotative meanings Thought informs language and vice versa (cognitive language) The Nature of Language


The Nature of Language :Language is ruled by grammar Phonological rules Syntactic rules Language is bound by context The Nature of Language


The Functions of Language :Communication acquisition Learn words of a language Learn to use words appropriately and effectively in the context of the situation The Functions of Language


Functional Communication Competencies : Functional Communication Competencies Using language as a means of control Using language to share information Questioning Describing Reinforcing Withholding


Functional Communication Competencies : Functional Communication Competencies Using language to express feelings Using language to express creativity Using language as a form of ritual


Problems with Language : Problems with Language Abstraction and meaning High- and Low-level abstractions Evasion Equivocation Euphemism Slang/Jargon


Problems with Language :Problems with Language Situation and meaning Semantics Pragmatics Limits of Labeling


Problems with Language : Problems with Language Confusing facts, opinions, and inferences Fact: something true and verifiable Opinion: personal evaluations Inferences: conclusions about what we observe


The Dangers of Biased Language : The Dangers of Biased Language Biased language openly excludes or implies something negative about certain groups. Political correctness may not be the solution as it can focus attention on rhetorical arguments.


Language in Context : Language in Context Language reflects context (Have a variety of speech repertoires) Language builds on context (Adjust language to situation) Language determines context (Choose formal / informal language)


Language in Context : Language in Context The relational context The situational context High language: formal, polite, or “mainstream” language Low language: easy going language for more comfortable environments


Language in Context : Language in Context The cultural context Culture, words, and thought Sapir-Whorf hypothesis Linguistic determinism/relativity High and Low Context cultures


Language in Context : Language in Context The cultural context (cont.) Gender and language Interruptions Qualifiers, hedges, disclaimers Tag Questions Resistance Messages Geography and language Accommodation


Language in Context : Language in Context Technology as Context When using technology, you must use strong, clear language to make up for lack of nonverbal cues English has become the language of technology Acronyms and emoticons can enhance communication