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Explore the fundamentals of language and meaning in communication through symbols, rules, and interpretations. Learn about semantics, syntax, and pragmatics, and how language organizes reality. Develop concrete communication strategies and improve language skills for effective interactions.
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Fundamentals of Communication Chapter 3- Language and Meaning
Language • What is it?
Language • What is it? • A collection of symbols, letters or words with arbitrary meanings that are governed by rules and used to communicate.
Language • What is it? • A collection of symbols, letters or words with arbitrary meanings that are governed by rules and used to communicate.
Symbols • Arbitrary—they are not intrinsically connected to what they represent • Ambiguous—their meanings are not clear cut or fixed • Abstract—they are not concrete or tangible • Because symbols require interpretation, communication is an ongoing process of creating meanings.
Language Use is Rule-Guided • Semantics • Syntax • Pragmatics • Phatic Communication • Culturally Bound • Organizes and Clarifies Reality
Language is Arbitrary & Abstract • Denotative Meaning • Connotative Meaning
Abstract to Concrete Animal Cat Scrabbles abstract concrete
Rephrase each statement so that it is less abstract and more concrete. • Edward always finds something critical to say. • Most people have lost any sense of personal responsibility. • Let’s keep our trip from getting too expensive.
Inventing symbols • Divide into groups of 5 • Each group will be assigned to invent a new symbol for one of the following: • Handicapped access • Icy bridge • Lethal chemicals • Unsafe area for walking • Flood zone
Inventing symbols cont. • Each group will present their symbol to the class • Discuss the utility and clarity of the proposed symbols
Language Use (Obstacle or Enhancement) • Grammatical Errors • Colloquialisms • Cliches • Euphemisms & Doublespeak • Slang • Profanity • Jargon • Regionalism • Sexist, Racist, and Heterosexist Language
Improving Language Skills • Avoid Intentional Confusion (empty language) • Use Descriptiveness • Be Concrete • Differentiate Observations/Inferences • Cultural Competence • Each of us has an ethical responsibility to guard against engaging in uncivil speech as well as not tolerating it from others.