4. Functions

Question 1

What is a function?

Answer 1

The reason or purpose of communication, e.g. making a suggestion, giving advise.

When we describe the functions of language we focus on the use of the language and its meaning for the people who are in the context where it is used.

Question 2

What’s a functional exponent?

Answer 2

A phrase which is an example of a function and shows the purpose of what the speaker is communicating.

Question 3

Why a function can express several different functions?

Answer 3

Because its function depends on the context.

Question 4

What’s register?

Answer 4

The formality or informality of the language used in a particular situation.

Question 5

How many registers has the English language?

Answer 5

1. Formal.
2. Neutral.
3. Informal.
4. Colloquial.

Question 6

Why teach functions and grammar together?

Answer 6

1. To give grammar meaning and context.
2. Learners learn grammatical structures that they can transfer to other contexts for use.

Question 7

In the functional approach, how does the functions to teach are chosen?

Answer 7

1. According to their frequency of use in practical daily life.
2. According to the learners’ communicative needs.

Question 8

What’s the emphasis of the functional approach?

Answer 8

1. Emphasis on communication.
2. Emphasis on language learning in chunks.