What is pragmatics?
Pragmatics is the study of how words are used in context for communication. Depending upon the context, the expression "excuse me" can mean either 1. I'm sorry. or 2. Please move so that I can get past you. Pragmatics are how the listener or reader interprets what is said or written based upon the context of the language.
Teaching strategies
- Provide authentic examples through video clips or literature.
- Give students situations to discover what expressions people use in different environments. ex: What greetings are used in clothing store, with friends at home, with an administrator at school, etc.
what is discourse?
Discourse is similar to pragmatics in that in involves the give and take of information within context. It is continuous speech and can be either written or oral.
ELL's face challenges both culturally and linguistically when it comes to learning conventions of discourse in a second language. Not only do they need to understand vocabulary and syntax, but they must also understand when it is appropriate to respond to questions, ask questions themselves, when to stay silent, follow politeness rules (turn taking, expressions of politeness, looking in the eye, etc.). (Olmedo, 2011). It is important for the teacher to understand both their own expectations in conversation and the perspective of the student depending on their background.
In writing, ELL's will come to a better understanding of the importance of word choice and inference, both of which are challenging when vocabulary is limited. Narratives and fiction assignments that require dialogue will help build these skills.
ELL's face challenges both culturally and linguistically when it comes to learning conventions of discourse in a second language. Not only do they need to understand vocabulary and syntax, but they must also understand when it is appropriate to respond to questions, ask questions themselves, when to stay silent, follow politeness rules (turn taking, expressions of politeness, looking in the eye, etc.). (Olmedo, 2011). It is important for the teacher to understand both their own expectations in conversation and the perspective of the student depending on their background.
In writing, ELL's will come to a better understanding of the importance of word choice and inference, both of which are challenging when vocabulary is limited. Narratives and fiction assignments that require dialogue will help build these skills.
Classroom strategies
- Provide students with opportunities for discourse throughout lessons. The more opportunities they have to hear others speak and participate in conversations, the better they will understand conversational maxims and build their vocabulary. Teachers should model expectations whether it is for classroom procedures or for an activity. Collaborative learning, Think-Pair-Share, and reciprocal teaching are great strategies for promoting oral discourse in the class.
- Have authentic reading materials that represent other cultures and that promote global awareness available in class.
- Journaling where the student and teacher can respond to one another.
- Writing assignments that incorporate dialogue.