I admit I am scared of critique (read this off another thread) but ill post this up:
“Speakers adjust the features of the language they use to suit the interpersonal relationship of those involved in the exchange” Discuss the ways that effective speakers change their ways of speaking to suit the context they are in.
Everybody has the ability to change the way they use language. This ability is a necessity to effective communication as there will be times when a feature may not be appropriate for use. Speakers can change their lexical choice, phonology and syntax as well as their pitch, speed and body language all to suit the context that they are in.
Choosing the correct wording is important if people are to maintain they relationship with other participants. The same word cannot be used in the same way in different contexts. Some instances, such as a business meeting, call for more sophisticated and precise words. An example is describing the profitability of a business over a known time period. By saying that ‘there were some profits and some losses but overall we made a loss’, not only does it seem long-winded but it also gives the effect of unprofessionalism and lack of knowledge. The same message can be delivered in two words – “net loss”. Given a casual situation though, this type of language may cause awkwardness or offense as it can be seen as condescending. Teenagers will speak mainly with slang terms such as ‘yo’, ‘whatever’ and ‘cool’. The wording one chooses allows for the most effective communication to take place.
How sounds are articulated may also depend on who the participants are. An accent may be put on, for example the broad Australian accent to portray a certain identity. This accent can be used to show friendliness, honesty and an impression that the individual understands the ‘real’ world. Another example of changing phonetics is when dealing with migrants. Features such as elision, assimilation and reduction would be minimised as migrants (who are not familiar with the language) would have difficultly differentiating sounds. People accommodate their speech according to those involved in the exchange.
The syntax one uses will vary with the situation they are in. Sentences may be cut short if appropriate. Times where there can be an overall reduction in what is being said include a phone or personal conversation. As time speaking to individuals on the phone is not free, ellipsis can occur. A mobile phone conversation can be as short as ‘Dinner. My house at 7.” where parts have been cut out such as “(There will be a) dinner (at) my house at 7 (o’clock) tonight”. Sentences fragments may be acceptable if the situation is informal however, may be unacceptable if the context was a public political speech. As a result, how much or how little an individual speaks is dependant on their audience and their context.
Prosodics and paralinguistics features can add additional meaning to a conversation. If the speed at which an utterance is said is increased, it can indicate excitement, frustration or impatience without any of the emotions being explained verbally. Body language can also indicate the degree of social distance between those in a conversation. A lack of eye contact may be allowed between friends but may be disrespectful when dealing with an employer or a stranger. The features of the language other than the words themselves also are determined by who the speakers are and what context is.
People that are able to change their wording, their articulation, their syntax and their non-verbal features of the language based on the scenario they are dealing with. By doing so they are able to speak appropriately and effectively.
Words: 563
Time: About 55 mins :S
Notes: Unedited and this question came with no stimulus material so I don't think it is a "true" practice question
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