Spoken Discourse
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of the input on Spoken Discourse?

  • Examining written communication only
  • Understanding written discourse characteristics
  • Teaching pronunciation techniques
  • Investigating conversation and conversational skills (correct)

Spoken discourse can be defined as real language of interaction beyond the single sentence level.

True (A)

What is one of the features that characterizes discourse?

Coherence

One key component of discourse is ________, which refers to the quality of a text being meaningful and unified.

<p>coherence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their definitions:

<p>Turn-Taking = The way speakers alternate in conversation Intonation = The variation of pitch in spoken language Gestures = Movements of the body that communicate information Conversational Repair = Strategies used to correct misunderstandings in conversation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a feature of spoken discourse?

<p>Capitalization (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The use of authentic transcripts is encouraged as teaching material.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'cohesive devices' in discourse?

<p>Devices that connect parts of a text, such as referencing and conjunctions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of transactional conversations?

<p>To get business done (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Meaning in conversation is only determined by the words used.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is locutionary meaning?

<p>The literal meaning of words out of context.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The response 'Yes' might indicate agreement or ______ in certain cultures.

<p>doubt</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the types of conversational participants with their likely relationship:

<p>Got the time? = Strangers of a similar status Do you have the time? = Strangers maintaining politeness Could I trouble you for the time? = Strangers with a status disparity What’s the time? = Acquainted individuals or friends</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does age affect speaking style?

<p>It leads to more casual conversations with younger peers. (A), It results in more formal language with older speakers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Conversational style remains the same regardless of context.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might a direct request imply in a conversation?

<p>Familiarity or a casual relationship between speakers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In some cases, the speaker's tone and context can alter the ______ of their words.

<p>illocutionary force</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the conversational examples with their implications:

<p>Whachadoin? = Informal situation between friends Have you seen the manager? = Less formal, likely known Could you lend me a fiver? = Informal request Could you lend me £5? = Formal request</p> Signup and view all the answers

What change occurs when someone says 'We was out at the cinema, innit?'?

<p>Grammatical change (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Lexical and grammatical choices reflect the speaker's social status and familiarity.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does conversational context include?

<p>The relationship between speakers, cultural background, and situational factors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic that differentiates spoken language from written language?

<p>Spoken language occurs in cultural and social contexts. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Spoken discourse analysis has significantly influenced classroom practice.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one feature that is common in spoken language.

<p>Use of intonation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In spoken discourse, we tend to adjust our message according to the immediate _____ we are receiving.

<p>feedback</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following features with their descriptions:

<p>Short sentences = Used more frequently in speech Paralinguistic features = Includes gestures and facial expressions Dialogue = A characteristic of conversation Monologue = A characteristic of writing</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a principle of spoken discourse?

<p>Spoken language is static. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Conversation can be defined as purposeful spoken interaction between two or more people.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Provide an example of a multi-purpose conversation.

<p>An interview.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Spoken language needs to be taught as _____ text.

<p>connected</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following utterances with their possible functions:

<p>Try harder. = An order, encouragement, advice Could you get that? = A request, an indirect order I wonder where he is. = A request for information, speculation Yes. = Agreement, acknowledgement Thank you. = Thanking someone, responding to an offer</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason why conversational purposes are difficult to categorize?

<p>Conversations can serve multiple purposes simultaneously. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The same grammar rules apply to both spoken and written English.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Identify one way in which spoken language can convey meaning that written language cannot.

<p>Intonation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In conversation, others may _____ us or finish our thoughts for us.

<p>interrupt</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a feature unique to spoken discourse?

<p>Paralinguistic features such as gestures. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is referred to as the speaker's intention behind an utterance?

<p>Illocutionary force (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Discourse analysis emphasizes sentence-dominated models of language.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term describes a change in conversational focus or topic?

<p>Transaction marker</p> Signup and view all the answers

The process of attempting to correct misunderstandings in conversation is known as ________.

<p>Conversational repair</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is a key feature of spoken discourse?

<p>Share knowledge (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of back-channel responses in a conversation?

<p>To reassure the speaker that the listener is engaged. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Spoken discourse is entirely devoid of rules.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Every conversation progresses logically and coherently.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Provide an example of ellipsis in speech.

<p>Went shopping today</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are adjacency pairs?

<p>Standard responses expected in conversation, such as greetings or questions followed by appropriate replies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The speaker's primary emphasis on stress in a spoken sentence indicates its ________.

<p>Prominence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an example of a conversation marker?

<p>While (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of conversation, the __________ is the 'point of departure' of the message.

<p>theme</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their meanings:

<p>Back-channel responses = Verbal cues indicating listening and engagement Theme = The focus of a statement or message Rheme = The part of the sentence that provides additional information about the theme Transaction marker = Indicates a shift in topic or focus within a conversation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a feature of spoken discourse?

<p>Formal writing (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Turn-taking rules are the same across all cultures.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can affect the emotional response of a speaker in conversation?

<p>Unexpected responses from the listener.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The elements of conversation such as interruptions and false starts reveal that conversation can be __________.

<p>chaotic</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which element functions as a marker to indicate a shift in the conversation?

<p>Transaction marker (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Students often grasp the complexities of turn-taking in conversation easily.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do back-channel responses impact the speaker?

<p>They provide reassurance that the listener is engaged in the conversation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the spoken discourse, the part that communicates 'what we want to say' is called the __________.

<p>rheme</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following types of responses to their categories:

<p>Request = Adjacency pair Greeting = Adjacency pair Offer = Adjacency pair Blame = Turn type</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered an acceptable aspect of conversation in Finland?

<p>Long pauses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Silence is generally discouraged in English conversations.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common way to open a conversation in British English with strangers?

<p>Shared topics like weather or complaints about public transportation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In British English, ending a conversation with a phrase such as ‘______’ can seem abrupt.

<p>Goodbye</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the conversation techniques with their descriptions:

<p>Turn-taking = Identifying when to speak Opening a conversation = Using set topics with strangers Closing a conversation = Negotiating the end with phrases Topic appropriacy = Understanding what subjects are suitable for discussion</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens if someone takes too short a turn in a conversation?

<p>They appear uninterested (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Learners should avoid discussions about taboo subjects to prevent offense.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does topic shift refer to in a conversation?

<p>The changes of direction that occur within a conversation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Competence in conversation includes knowing when to take a _____ and how long to keep it.

<p>turn</p> Signup and view all the answers

How many shifts were identified in the provided conversation extract?

<p>Five (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Changing topics abruptly is generally accepted in all cultures.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might a lack of focus on conversation conventions lead to for learners?

<p>Reluctance to participate in conversations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In British English, common phrases used for closing include, ‘Well it’s been nice…’ and ‘______, but I’ve got to run.’

<p>Sorry</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the conventional conversation phrases with their purpose:

<p>'How was your holiday?' = Opening a conversation 'I’ve got to go now' = Closing a conversation 'It was quite sunny actually' = Shift indicator 'Well it’s been nice...' = Ending politely</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might it be challenging for learners to close a conversation?

<p>They may be too abrupt or formal (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of conversational repair?

<p>To correct or deal with communication problems (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Intonation and stress are only used to convey the speaker's emotions.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can indicate the end of a speaking turn in a conversation?

<p>Intonation</p> Signup and view all the answers

The speaker can convey meaning through his/her selection of _______.

<p>prominence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following conversation expressions with their main purpose:

<p>What I’m saying is... = Clarify what we said Did you mean to say...? = Clarify what someone else said Are you with me? = Check someone is following the conversation More or less, yes... = Indicate you are lost in the conversation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding gesture and body language?

<p>They can show interest or lack of interest. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Repair strategies are only beneficial for the speaker and not for the listener.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might a 'referring' tone involve?

<p>Rising intonation</p> Signup and view all the answers

____ and stress can indicate interest, surprise, excitement, or boredom in communication.

<p>Intonation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following expressions to their usage:

<p>So you mean that... = Clarify what someone said Let me rephrase that... = Clarify what we said Did you mean to say...? = Clarify what someone said Am I making sense? = Check someone is following the conversation</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a function of intonation?

<p>To determine the accuracy of grammar (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Body language is essential in showing feelings during a conversation.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of breaking eye contact during a conversation?

<p>It signifies lack of interest. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to focus on intonation and stress in language learning?

<p>They play a crucial role in meaning and conversation structure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Authentic materials in the classroom are always scripted and predictable.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the study of language in use, either written or spoken, referred to as?

<p>discourse</p> Signup and view all the answers

____ is considered a necessary condition for language learning.

<p>Repairing</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which strategy helps clarify what the speaker has said?

<p>Let me put it another way… (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ability to know how to repair ______ problems is essential in conversation.

<p>conversational</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following topics with their descriptions:

<p>Cohesion = Quality of being grammatically and lexically connected Illocutionary force = The intended significance of an utterance Back-channel responses = Verbal or non-verbal signals that a listener is paying attention Ellipsis = Omission of words in a sentence without loss of meaning</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors contributes to students' difficulties in spoken interactions?

<p>Teaching methods relying solely on scripted dialogues. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Maintaining appropriate body language is crucial for effective communication.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one way teachers can develop students' awareness of spoken discourse?

<p>Using authentic materials</p> Signup and view all the answers

Students often face ______ difficulties not anticipated in classroom spoken texts.

<p>linguistic and strategic</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following discourse aspects with their importance:

<p>Formality = Matches the social context and participants Conjunction = Links ideas and sentences smoothly Gestures = Enhances meaning through non-verbal communication Turn-taking = Structures the flow of conversation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component specifically related to spoken discourse?

<p>Cohesion (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Coursebooks provide a comprehensive and systematic focus on features of spoken discourse.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of using scripted or semi-scripted dialogues in teaching materials?

<p>Students struggle to participate effectively in real conversations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Understanding and conveying ______ meaning through stress and intonation is critical in spoken discourse.

<p>affective and attitudinal</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following interactions with their descriptions:

<p>Opening a conversation = Initiating a dialogue with a greeting or question Closing a conversation = Concluding the interaction politely Shifting topics = Transitioning smoothly from one subject to another Using back-channel responses = Indicating support or acknowledgement during a conversation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Discourse

The natural flow of language as it appears in spoken or written communication, going beyond single sentences to create a meaningful whole.

Coherence

The ability of a text to be understood, meaningful, and unified.

Cohesive Devices

Elements that connect different parts of a text, showing how they relate to each other.

Turn-Taking

Changing turns in a conversation, like passing the 'speaking baton' back and forth.

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Opening and Closing

The way conversations start and end, with cues like greetings and farewells.

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Topic

The main topic or theme that guides a conversation.

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Conversational Repair

Fixing mistakes in a conversation, like clarifying a misunderstanding.

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Intonation and Stress

The rise and fall of voice, as well as emphasis on certain words, can convey meaning in spoken language.

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Purpose of Conversation

The reason or goal behind a conversation; whether it's focused on getting something done (transactional) or building relationships (interactional).

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Meaning in Conversation

The meaning of words is determined by the context in which they are spoken. The same words can have different interpretations depending on the situation, relationship, and culture.

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Locutionary Meaning

The literal meaning of words, just the words on their own, without considering the situation.

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Illocutionary Force

The intended meaning of words, taking into account the situation, relationship, and culture.

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Speech Act

Actions performed through language, like making a request, giving advice, or making a promise. Each action within a conversation is a speech act.

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Conversational Style

The way we speak to people based on our relationship, their position (job or rank), and social standing. This can vary based on gender, age, and cultural context.

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Styles of Speaking

Different ways of speaking that signal perceived equality or differences in roles, status, or familiarity between people. These differences can involve sounds, words, and grammar.

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Informal Style

An informal, casual way of speaking, often used with friends, family, or those of similar status.

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Formal Style

Formal and polite language, often used with strangers, people of authority, or when the situation demands it.

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Informal Language Features

Replacing words with simpler ones, using slang or contractions, shortening phrases, and having a more casual tone.

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Formal Language Features

Using complete sentences, avoiding slang or contractions, choosing carefully chosen words, adhering to proper grammar, and maintaining a respectful tone.

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Awareness of Social Context

Understanding how different ways of speaking are perceived by others based on their status, age, and familiarity. We should be aware of the appropriate language for various situations.

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Beyond the Literal

Learners need to be encouraged to go beyond looking at individual words and to interpret the speaker's intended meaning.

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Contextualized Language Use

Using language that is appropriate to the situation, relationship, and cultural context.

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Communication Competence

The ability to understand and use different language styles and to recognize the social implications of language choices.

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Back-Channel Responses

Short, informal responses from a listener to show they are paying attention and understanding the speaker.

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Theme (in Conversation)

A conversation or speech act has a 'point of departure' or an element of the message that sets up the rest of the conversation.

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Rheme (in Conversation)

The part of the sentence that conveys information about the theme, or the 'what we want to say' about the theme.

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Adjacency Pairs

A conversational pattern where one speaker's utterance is followed by a predictable, expected response from the other speaker.

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Standard Responses (in Conversations)

These are the basic, expected responses to adjacency pairs.

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Unexpected Responses (in Conversations)

Responses that are unexpected or unusual, breaking the pattern of expected responses.

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Transaction Marker

A feature that signals a change in topic or focus during a conversation.

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Chaos in Conversation

Conversational patterns are not always neat and tidy. They often involve interruptions, false starts, and changes in direction.

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Conversation Analysis

The study of the natural structure of conversation and how people interact using language in real-time.

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Units of Conversation

Groups of utterances that make up parts of a conversation.

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Formality in Language

The ability to use and understand different levels of formality in language.

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Cohesion in Spoken Discourse

The use of various language features to link and connect different parts of a text, ensuring meaning is clear.

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Distinct Features of Spoken Discourse

Features of spoken discourse are not always the same as written discourse.

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Spoken Discourse Features

Spoken language is a unique way of communicating, with its own set of features that differ from writing. These features are used to achieve different purposes and build relationships.

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Conversation as Dialogue

Conversation is a two-way street, where people take turns speaking and responding to each other. Think of it like passing a 'speaking baton' back and forth.

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Spontaneous Nature of Spoken Discourse

Spoken communication is often spontaneous, with little time for planning. You adjust your message based on the immediate feedback you receive.

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Simplicity in Spoken Discourse

Spoken language often uses simple words and sentence structures compared to formal writing. Think of using everyday language in a casual talk.

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Interruptions in Conversations

Spoken discourse can include interruptions, where people may jump in to clarify or add their thoughts.

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Intonation and Stress in Spoken Discourse

Spoken language uses intonation and stress to add meaning. This means changing the pitch of your voice and emphasizing certain words.

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Paralinguistic Features of Spoken Discourse

Spoken language can be accompanied by body language, gestures, and facial expressions, providing extra context and meaning.

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Multi-Purpose Nature of Conversation

The purpose of conversation is usually multi-faceted, involving social interaction, information sharing, and many other aspects.

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Functions of Conversation

Conversation can be used to express intentions, share information, build relationships, and make requests, among other things.

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Context and Cultural Influences in Conversation

The meaning of an utterance in a conversation can be influenced by the context and cultural background of the speakers.

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Flexibility of Grammar in Spoken Discourse

Spoken discourse doesn't always follow the strict rules of written grammar. It's more about getting the message across naturally.

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Discourse Analysis

Discourse analysis is the study of how language is used in real-world communication, taking into account both spoken and written forms.

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Distinguishing Spoken and Written Language

The recognition that spoken and written language are fundamentally different is important for understanding the nature of communication.

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Theme

The topic or what is being discussed. It's the central idea of the conversation.

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Ellipsis

Leaving out words in a sentence, often relying on context for meaning.

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Silence in Conversation

In English, long pauses can be seen as awkward, but in other cultures like Finland, silence is accepted during conversations.

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Turn-Taking Signals

Actions like using certain phrases, facial expressions, gestures, eye contact, and intonation, help speakers signal that they're finishing their turn in a conversation.

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Turn Length

Learners may understand the language but struggle with unwritten rules like conversational length. Taking too short a turn can seem uninterested, while a long turn may be perceived as rude.

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Conversation Openings

Starting a conversation (e.g., with strangers) in English can be tricky. In British English, common topics include shared annoyances, weather, or asking for help.

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Conversation Closings

Ending a conversation in English also has its own style. British English often uses phrases like "Well, it’s been nice…" or "I’ve got to go now."

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Topic Appropriacy

The topics we discuss can vary across cultures. What's suitable in one culture might be inappropriate in another.

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Taboo Subjects

A 'taboo' subject is a topic that is considered inappropriate or offensive to discuss in a particular context.

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Cultural Awareness

Learning about 'safe' topics in different cultures can help students avoid saying something offensive.

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Topic Shift

Strategies for changing a topic you're uncomfortable with can be valuable in different cultures.

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Conversation Shifts

Changes in a conversation's direction often occur, sometimes subtly, sometimes clearly marked.

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Shift Markers

A topic shift can be indicated by various methods, such as changing sentence structure or verb tense, a brief silence, or a word like 'Mm' (to signal a change).

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Dynamic Conversations

Conversations are dynamic, flowing from one point to another, even with unexpected changes.

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Discourse Markers

Understanding the subtle signals within conversations is crucial for effective communication.

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Cohesion in Conversation

The way words and phrases connect create a smooth, cohesive flow in conversation.

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Dynamic Process

Conversation is constantly evolving, adapting to who's talking, what they're saying, and the overall context.

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Intercultural Communication

Being aware of different communication styles across cultures helps us navigate conversations effectively.

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Gesture and Body Language

Gestures and facial expressions add to the meaning of conversation, but they vary across cultures.

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Clarification Phrases

Expressions we use to clarify what we or others have said in a conversation.

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Referring Tone

A "referring" tone uses rising intonation and signals known or shared information.

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Proclaiming Tone

A "proclaiming" tone uses falling intonation and signals new or unknown information.

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Sentence Stress

The speaker's choice of what words or syllables to emphasize can convey meaning in a sentence.

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Intonation and Grammar Relationship

Intonation and stress work independently but harmoniously to create meaning in speech.

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Intonation and Stress in Discourse

Intonation and stress affect how a conversation unfolds and how speakers express their emotions.

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Emotion and Intonation

Intonation is not directly tied to emotions, but more intense emotions tend to have wider pitch changes.

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Topic Management

The ability to identify changes in topic and initiate those changes is crucial for effective conversation.

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Conversational Repair for Learners

Learners benefit from focusing on strategies to both recognize and repair conversational problems.

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Intonation and Stress Practice

Intonation and stress are important pronunciation features that learners need to practice systematically.

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Eye Contact in Conversation

Maintaining eye contact shows interest and engagement in a conversation. Breaking eye contact can signal disinterest, guilt, or dishonesty.

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Body Language in Conversation

Gestures and body language can convey meaning and influence how others perceive you during conversation. Inappropriate gestures can cause misunderstandings or negative reactions.

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Opening and Closing Conversations

How a conversation starts and ends, using appropriate greetings and farewells, which vary based on context and culture.

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Conversation Topic Choice

Choosing topics that are appropriate for the situation, audience, and relationship. Some topics are taboo or sensitive in certain social circles.

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Cultural Considerations in Communication

Using culturally appropriate gestures and body language. What is acceptable in one culture may be offensive in another.

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Fixed Phrases and Adjacency Pairs

Familiar phrases and common pairs of utterances in conversation, like 'How are you?' and 'Fine, thanks.'

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Maintaining Conversation Flow

Knowing how to keep a conversation going, using strategies like making brief responses, asking questions, or changing the topic.

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Formality and Informality

The process of adapting your language to the context, situation, and audience. This includes being formal with people you don't know well and informal with friends.

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Authentic Materials

Materials like real-life conversations, videos, or podcasts can improve language learning by exposing students to authentic, unscripted language.

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Study Notes

Spoken Discourse Overview

  • Spoken discourse is real-life spoken communication beyond single sentences, in context, and appearing in spoken texts.
  • Coherence is key, making the text meaningful and unified. Features include cohesive devices (referencing, parallel structures, repetition, etc.) and genre-specific lexis.
  • Spoken discourse has similar features to written discourse, but also unique ones.

Key Differences Between Spoken and Written Discourse

  • Spoken: shorter sentences, simpler vocabulary/conjunctions, dialogue-based, message adjusted based on immediate feedback, little/no planning time, potentially ungrammatical, interruptions possible, use of stress/intonation, paralinguistic features (gesture, facial expressions).
  • Written: monologue-based, formal, planned, grammatically correct, no immediate feedback.

Brief History of Discourse Analysis

  • Discourse analysis recognizes speaking as distinct from written language.
  • Current teaching often fails to reflect the reality of spoken discourse, using dialogues based on written English grammar.
  • Spoken language is influenced by culture, social contexts, and relationships.
  • Discourse is used to achieve various social/cultural purposes. There is a systematic relationship between the language and its context.

Units of Conversation

  • Conversation is purposeful spoken interaction between two or more people, often multi-purpose (e.g., interviews).

  • Purposes are multi-faceted and difficult to categorize (transactional vs. interactional).

  • Functions of conversation depend heavily on context (e.g., "Try harder" can signal order, encouragement, or advice—depending).

  • Meaning is defined by context, illocutionary force (intended meaning), and locutionary force (literal meaning). Conversational "moves" are speech acts.

  • Conversational style varies with speaker relationships, roles, status, gender, age, and context (formal vs. informal).

  • Turn-taking: Conversations involve turns for speaking and listening, governed by rules. Interrupting, long pauses, and silence can vary culturally (e.g., English vs. Finnish).

  • Opening/closing: Opening conversations with strangers often involves shared experiences or asking questions (weather, shared adversity). Closing conversations often uses phrases like "Well it's been nice..." or "I've got to run."

  • Topic: Topics vary culturally. Topic shift within conversations is common.

Conversational Repair

  • Repair mechanisms are frequently used: misunderstanding, mishearing, corrections, checking comprehension.
  • Ways to clarify (from examples): rephrasing, checking understanding, clarifying others' statements, indicating lost in the conversation.

Intonation and Stress

  • Intonation and stress convey attitude/emotion and shape discourse: indicating interest, surprise, excitement, helping with conversation flow, shifts in topic.
  • Sentence stress (prominence) highlights significant parts, revealing shared knowledge between speakers.
  • Prominence and grammar work in harmony toward meaning. (Intonation can indicate known/shared vs. unshared information).

Gesture and Body Language

  • Gesture/body language is heavily culture-specific and can positively or negatively affect conversation flow, participation, and comprehension.
  • Eye contact is key in British English culture (e.g., breaking eye contact can indicate lack of interest, shiftiness).

Implementing in the Classroom

  • Common and specific problems with spoken discourse include: cohesion, reference, conjunctions, ellipsis, substitution, formality, identifying illocutionary force, turn-taking, opening/closing, topic appropriateness, conversational repair, intonation/stress, cultural gesture/body language, fixed expressions.
  • Utilize authentic materials (e.g., recordings, video clips, etc.)
  • Analyze context and intended meaning
  • Importance of conversational style and its relationship to status, age, and familiarity.

Terminology Review

  • Speech Act: Another term for function (e.g., praising, suggesting, requesting).
  • Illocutionary Force: The speaker's intention behind an utterance (e.g., "The phone's ringing"=request, not statement).
  • Theme: The topic or subject being discussed.
  • Transaction Marker: A feature signaling a topic shift.
  • Conversational Repair: Mechanisms for correcting problems during a conversation.
  • Ellipsis: Leaving out words in a sentence.

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Description

Test your understanding of spoken discourse and its key features with this quiz. Explore concepts such as cohesive devices, transactional conversations, and the impact of age on speaking style. This quiz will challenge your knowledge of real language interaction and its characteristics.

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