Using language appropriately for a range of classroom functions

The use of language in a correct way goes with classroom functions which we can use with different exponetns (depending on the learning context, purpose, learner´s needs and age). On order to students accomplish tasks, teacher must focus on the functions of language. Thus, in this section we will explore some classroom functions with the examples below:

Two friends go to a dinner party. Arriving at the dinner party, they introduce themselves, Mary: Good night, my name is Mary.

Susan: Good night, I´m Susan.

The host: Good night, come in, please!

Both friends: Thanks, where can we put our coats?

The host: Here, please!

Susan: This meal is really delicious! But, maybe you need to make more because I would like to try more.

The host: Oh, really? I will do.

So, during this short dialogue, each of these sentences contains language functions: introducing, giving thanks, congratulating, and giving advice.

Moreover, there are more classroom functions such as getting learners´ attention using Stand up!; Encouraging by using positive language in order to make students feel good; Prompting, it helps learners´ to be concentrate in class and make students participate more.

Additionally, those classroom functions have better come with teacher´s gestures which make easier to students figurate out what he/she is saying. It means that communicative purposes are achieve, however, it will be necessary to use the mother language with beginners.

 

Resource:

• Educ.ualberta.ca,. (2016). Functions of Language. Retrieved 26 January 2016, from http://www.educ.ualberta.ca/staff/olenka.bilash/best%20of%20bilash/functionsof%20lang.html

• Scholastic Teachers,. (2016). Five Major Functions of the Classroom Library | Scholastic.com. Retrieved 26 January 2016, from http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/article/five-major-functions-classroom-library