38 Questions
What is the definition of language according to the unit?
A system of symbols, words, and/or gestures used to communicate meaning.
What happens to the meaning of words over time?
They change meaning.
What is the relationship between a symbol and a referent in the Triangle of Meaning?
Indirect and complex.
What is the role of people in giving meaning to words?
People give meaning to words through shared understanding.
What is an example of a word that has changed meaning over time?
All of the above
What is the definition of a thought in the Triangle of Meaning?
A concept or idea a person references.
What is the definition of a referent in the Triangle of Meaning?
An object or idea to which a symbol refers.
What is the definition of a symbol in the Triangle of Meaning?
A word that represents an idea.
What is the primary characteristic of primary messages?
Refers to intentional content, both verbal and nonverbal.
What is an example of an auxiliary message?
A vocal inflection that conveys confidence.
What are the three distinct types of messages?
Primary, secondary, and auxiliary.
What is the purpose of an attention statement?
To capture the attention of the audience.
What is the triangle of meaning?
A model that illustrates the relationship between symbols and referents.
What type of message is unintentional and nonverbal?
Secondary message.
What is the purpose of the introduction?
To establish a relationship with the audience.
What is an example of a secondary message?
A messy workspace that implies disorganization.
What is the purpose of a residual message in communication?
To leave a lasting impression on the audience
What type of rule governs the order of words in a sentence?
Syntactic rules
What is the purpose of the ladder of abstraction model?
To show how language can range from concrete to abstract
What does the semantic rule govern in language?
The meaning of words and how to interpret them
What is the main purpose of a conclusion in communication?
To provide a summary of the main points
What type of rule governs the meaning of words and how to interpret them according to context and social custom?
Contextual rules
Why is it important to define your terms when communicating?
To ensure that your audience understands the language you are using
What is the main purpose of using contextual clues in communication?
To guide the audience as they read or listen
What is the result of using jargon in communication?
It can create a barrier to understanding for those not familiar with the profession
Why is it important to check for understanding in communication?
To provide feedback to the communicator
What is the main goal of being results-oriented in communication?
To balance the need for attention to detail with the need to arrive at the end product
What is the main difference between a cliché and jargon?
A cliché is a cultural reference, while jargon is a technical term
What is the result of using too many technical terms or jargon in communication?
It can create a barrier to understanding for those not familiar with the profession
Why is it important to consider the tone of your communication?
To choose the tone that is best for your intended audience
What are the two types of meanings of words, according to the content?
Concrete and abstract
What level of abstraction deals with broad group of names with little specification?
Level Three
What is the characteristic of successful professional writers?
They draw heavily on Level One abstractions
What is the purpose of supporting abstractions with concrete details in writing?
To achieve sophistication in writing
What should the larger idea or purpose of a writing be based on?
A general concept from the top rung
What level of abstraction deals with specific, identifiable nouns?
Level One
What is the characteristic of quality writing?
It touches the top rung and spends most of its time in concrete details
What is the relationship between abstraction and sophistication in thought?
Sophistication of thought deals in the realm of abstraction
Study Notes
Language and the Communication Process
- Communication is the process of understanding and sharing meaning.
- Language is a system of symbols, words, and/or gestures used to communicate meaning.
- Words themselves hold no meaning; it takes at least two people to use them and give them life and purpose.
The Triangle of Meaning
- A model of communication that indicates the relationship among a thought, symbol, and referent.
- A thought is the concept or idea a person references.
- A symbol is the word that represents the thought.
- A referent is the object or idea to which the symbol refers.
Characteristics of Messages
- Primary messages refer to the intentional content, both verbal and nonverbal.
- Secondary messages refer to the unintentional content, both verbal and nonverbal.
- Auxiliary messages refer to the intentional and unintentional ways a primary message is communicated.
The Five Parts of a Message
- Attention statement: captures the attention of your audience.
- Introduction: a clear statement about your topic; establish a relationship with your audience.
- Body: present your message in detail, using any of a variety of organizational structures.
- Conclusion: provide the audience with a sense of closure by summarizing your main points and relating them to the overall topic.
- Residual message: a message or thought that stays with your audience well after the communication is finished.
Principles of Verbal Communication
- Language has rules that govern or control your use of words:
- Syntactic rules: govern the order of words in a sentence.
- Semantic rules: govern the meaning of words and how to interpret them.
- Contextual rules: govern meaning and word choice according to context and social custom.
Language as an Obstacle to Communication
- Language can be an obstacle to communication due to six barriers:
- Barrier 1: not considering the audience's cultural background
- Barrier 2: using jargon or technical terms unfamiliar to the audience
- Barrier 3: using clichés or cultural references that may not translate
- Barrier 4: using words with multiple meanings
- Barrier 5: using abstract or vague language
- Barrier 6: using language that is too complex or technical
Improving Verbal Communication
- Define your terms: be aware of unfamiliar words and decide whether to use them or substitute with more common words.
- Choose precise words: select words that provide the most accurate picture for your audience.
- Consider your audience: be aware of your audience's cultural background and adjust your language accordingly.
- Control tone: consider the tone that is best for your intended audience.
- Check for understanding: ensure your audience understands your message by using contextual clues and feedback.
This quiz covers language and communication, including how language shapes reality, language barriers, message types, and strategies for improving verbal communication.
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