Language and Communication Module 1 Quiz

Study Notes

Module 1: Language and Communication

Language is a unique human ability essential for creating and expressing life experiences.
True language encompasses a system of rules (grammar), a sound system (phonology), and a comprehensive vocabulary (lexicon).
Unlike animals that communicate, humans utilize rule-governed language structures to convey meaning.
A speech community consists of individuals who understand and share the same language rules.
Language acquisition occurs during childhood, involving the natural learning of a mother tongue.
Language learning refers to studying additional languages, either formally or informally.
Communication signifies the exchange of ideas and thoughts among individuals.
Context plays a crucial role in communication, involving factors such as physical setting, speaker/listener values, and the relevance of the message.
Communication can be classified by mode, context, purpose, and style.

Module 2: Types of Communication

Communication is fundamentally about exchanging thoughts and ideas.
Context encompasses the environment in which communication happens, influencing the interaction.
Verbal Communication: Involves spoken interactions like public speaking and interviews.
Non-Verbal Communication: Involves conveying messages through gestures and expressions instead of words.
Intrapersonal Communication: An internal dialogue and self-reflection.
Interpersonal Communication: Involves direct interaction between individuals, either in pairs or groups.
Extended Communication: Utilizes electronic media platforms for interaction.
Organizational Communication: Pertains to interactions within a company or organization.
Formal Structure: Adheres to designated communication channels, including:
- Downward Communication: From higher to lower levels.
- Upward Communication: From subordinates to superiors.
- Horizontal Communication: Between peers in different departments.
- Crosswise Communication: Between individuals at varying levels across units.
Informal Structure: Reflects casual interactions not bound by official channels.
Intercultural Communication: Engages individuals from diverse backgrounds in dialogue.
Formal Communication: Employs structured language for informing or persuading, such as in lectures or business letters.
Informal Communication: Includes casual interactions among friends and family.

Module 3: Communication Processes, Principles, and Ethics

Aristotle's Communication Model: Represents a linear, speaker-centered approach formulated before 300 B.C., focusing on public speaking.
Five Primary Elements of Aristotle's Model:
- Speaker: The orator.
- Speech: Content focused on themes like war.
- Occasion: Contextual setting, e.g., battlefield.
- Audience: Recipients of the message, such as soldiers.
- Effect: The intended outcome, such as defeating an enemy.
Lasswell's Model: An adaptable linear model highlighting the importance of the medium, focusing on the questions of who, what, in which channel, to whom, and with what effect.
Shannon-Weaver's Model: A technical communication model introduced in 1949, addressing "noise" that disrupts message clarity; it includes components like information source, message, receiver, and the processes of encoding and decoding.
Berlo's SMCR Model: Simplifies communication into Sender, Message, Channel, and Receiver, emphasizing the importance of coding and decoding processes for effective interaction.
General Principles of Effective Communication:
- Be clear about your purpose (to inform, entertain, persuade).
- Understand your audience (considering age, background, culture).
- Have extensive knowledge of the topic.
- Adjust communication according to contextual factors.
- Utilize feedback for improvement.
Principles of Effective Oral Communication: Ensure clarity of purpose, completeness of message, conciseness in delivery, and maintain natural communication flow.