UNIT 4 FUNCTIONS

UNIT 4 FUNCTION 

A function is a reason why people communicate; it means that all the time we speak or write it has a purpose or for a reason. Like for example when we are apologizing, greeting, clarifying, inviting, advising, agreeing, etc. as we can notice all functions are ending with ing. However, functions describe how we use language. So there is a language we use to express a function which is called exponent. According to Marianne Dainton, Elaine D. Zelley thaey say that “A function refers to what communication does. For example apologising serves the function of relationship and a joking can serve the function of tension release” (Marianne Dainton, 2015)

Something new for me is that an exponent can express different functions at the same time but it depends on the context the speaker is saying. On the other hand, a function may be expressed through different exponents. To accomplish with that we have to have into account the level of formality the speakers use I mean informal which is more socially casually, and sometimes colloquial  and formal which is more social distance. All this is called register. Functions do not stop there because there can also exist neutral exponents which is expressed when neither great respect nor more casualness. Moreover, register the appropriate name of the level of formality. I would like to teach fucntions through roleplays 

Picture showing a role play where students learn to use functions

Video abou how to use funtions in a role play

 


Bibliography:

Covell, L. T. (1865). Covell's digest of English grammar: A digest of English grammar, synthetical. New York.

Ganz, J. B. (2014). Aided Augmentative Communication for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. London.

Marianne Dainton, E. D. (2015). Applying Communication Theory for Professional Life: A Practical Introduction. united kingdom.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_BSyFo3IFs