UNIT 4

FUNCTIONS

At first, we were learning about grammar and lexis which allow us to describe the language. However, functions have focused on explaining how language is used. The first module of TKT also takes into consideration the importance of teaching functions to communicate in different contexts. Consequently, it will contain the most relevant information with some examples to apply it correctly in the teaching-learning process.

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Spratt, M., et al. (2011) mentioned that functions are the purposes behind communicating something. They are used to express clarification, obligation, invitation, etc. Similarly, Ek, J., & Trim, J. (1998) listed six specific language functions such as “imparting and seeking factual information”, “expressing and finding out attitudes”, “getting things done”, “socialising”, “structuring discourse”and “communication repair”(p.27). For example: asking for understanding, the exponent could be “Do you mean to say that…”. Moreover, exponents vary depending on the context in which people are able to choose their level of formality. For instance, formal language focuses on addressing people who are not well known. Whereas, informal language uses colloquial expressions to communicate in a casual way. About neutral language, it can be used in both formal and informal situations with authorities or friends. These levels of formality are connected with a register that indicates the use of language according to specific groups of people or situations. In addition, appropriacy could be classified as appropriate or inappropriate which shows the congruence between the exponents or expressions and the context.

A practical example of how to apply functions could be to initially present a video of how native people express in certain contexts. If the function is Getting acquainted, students are going to pay attention to how people introduce themselves, how they greet others and probably they could identify if they use formal or informal language. Students could make small groups to list the expressions that they have listened to. Consequently, students can dramatize the scene with their personal information to practice this language function. Another example, students can learn grammatical structures through functions. Students can write a letter to invite someone to a birthday party. The teacher must introduce expressions and teach them their structure. 

Functions are useful for improving grammatical structures, understanding meaning in contexts and encourage students to communicate with others. For that reason, it is important to implement functions in the English class.

References


Ek, J., & Trim, J. (1998). Language functions. In Threshold 1990 (Threshold, pp. 27-47). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. doi:10.1017/CBO9780511667176.007

English with linguivers. (2020, September 10). Asking for and Giving Advice in English. [Video file]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6oaHCvg5Ho&ab_channel=EnglishwithLinguiversEnglishwithLinguivers

Spratt, M., Pulverness, A., & Williams, M. (2011). The TKT Course Modules 1, 2 and 3 (2nd ed., TKT Course). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. doi:10.1017/CBO9781139062398