Module 1.1 & 1.2
Module 1.1 & 1.2
CURRICULUM
MODULE 1
MODULE 1.1
LANGUAGE PRINCIPLES AND FUNCTION
• Language was the first, and is still the most important creation of man.
• “Language is an integral part in our daily life”
• Meaning
• Language is a tool for communication.
• Language is a sole medium for communication.
• Language is a system of communication, a medium of thought and a social interaction.
MODULE 1.1
LANGUAGE PRINCIPLES AND FUNCTION
• Definition
• Bloch and Trager: Language is a system of arbitrary symbols by means of which a social
group communicates.
(Arbitrary means there is no relation between the sound/word and the object it represents.)
• Oxford dictionary : language is a human communication through the use of spoken/written
words.
PRINCIPLES OF LANGUAGE
1. Language is arbitrary
• Arbitrary means there is no relation between the sound/word and the object it represents.
• If we decide to change and modify sounds/words, it would be the new and acceptable form
of a language.
• Woman-English
• Aurat –Urdu
• Zen – Persian
• Feminine - French
PRINCIPLES OF LANGUAGE
6. Language is unique.
• Every language has its own unique structure, words and sounds.
• No language can be learned resorting the use of any other language.
PRINCIPLES OF LANGUAGE
9. Language is social.
• Language exists in society and is used by human beings to communicate in
the society.
• Language helps man to be a social being.
PRINCIPLES OF LANGUAGE
1. INFORMATIVE FUNCTION
• most important function
• it concentrates on the message.
• used to give new information
• Depends on truth and value.
Eg: lecture, seminars, announcements
FUNCTIONS OF LANGUAGE
3. DIRECTIVE FUNCTION
• use of language to influence the behaviour of others.
• To give instructions or commands and is for social controlling.
• It resembles the expressive function
Eg:
• Expressive: I am thirsty. (expressing feeling/need)
• Directive : I need a glass of water. (requesting/commanding)
FUNCTIONS OF LANGUAGE
4. AESTHETIC FUNCTION
5. PHATIC FUNCTION
• general purpose
• casual talk, friendly talk, informal talk
FUNCTIONS OF LANGUAGE
COMPARISON
6. CONTROL FUNCTION
• used for handling a situation
• eg : a child cries when he is hungry or suffering from pain. this cry makes the
mother rush for help.
FUNCTIONS OF LANGUAGE
7. INTERPRETIVE
interpreting a particular situation/ book/ work.
8. REMEMBERING AND THINKING
We language to think, remember, store, retrieve, and restore anything in our mind.