Overview
This lecture introduces the fundamental concepts of language and communication, focusing on the nature of language, how it is acquired and learned, and the role of language in effective communication.
Nature of Language
- Language is unique to humans and enables the exchange of ideas, thoughts, and feelings.
- A language must have a system of rules (grammar), a sound system (phonology), and a vocabulary (lexicon).
- Language can be spoken or written, using words in a structured and conventional way.
- Members of the same speech community share the same language system, enabling mutual understanding.
Language Acquisition and Learning
- Language acquisition is the process of naturally gaining language within a community during childhood.
- The first language(s) acquired are called mother tongues or first languages.
- Second languages are learned formally or informally after the first language is acquired.
- Language learning refers to acquiring additional languages, often through instruction or self-study.
Language Contact and Change
- When different languages come into contact, speakers may learn from one another, leading to language change.
- Language is dynamic; it evolves as people interact and adapt language to new contexts and needs.
- Examples include vocabulary variations and spelling differences across cultures.
Communication and Its Forms
- Communication is the exchange of thoughts, ideas, and views between two or more people.
- Communication takes different forms depending on mode, context, purpose, and style.
- Effective communication depends on using a shared language system for understanding.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Grammar — the system of rules that guides sentence structure in a language.
- Phonology — the sound system of a language.
- Lexicon — the vocabulary of a language.
- Speech community — a group of people who share the same language system.
- Mother tongue/First language — the language(s) acquired naturally during childhood.
- Second language — a language learned after the first language.
- Language acquisition — the natural process of learning a language, especially in early childhood.
- Language learning — the process of gaining additional languages, usually through teaching or study.
- Language contact — interaction between speakers of different languages.
- Language change — the evolution of language forms and usage over time.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on the differences between language acquisition and language learning.
- Prepare to identify correct and incorrect spellings in English and justify choices.
- Write an essay demonstrating understanding of the role of language in communication.