Discourse Structure (spoken language) Flashcards
Turn taking
A conversation progresses by means of the speakers taking turn to speak. This can happen because of either verbal or non verbal cues as well as direct cues such as questions.
Important indicator of the relationship between the speakers (status and power)
Overlaps/interruptions
Overlaps can indicate co-operation and agreement or a challenging interruption to signal disagreement or wish to change the topic
Adjaceny pairs
Two-part exchange
Greetings: Hello, hi, how are you? Questions: What's the time? - 3 o'clock Summons and response Statement and agreement: terrible weather - you're right Apology and response Invitation and response
Chaining of adjaceny pairs
A chain of adjaceny pairs for a conversation to proceed
Feedback (back channel behaviour)
Feedback given by a listener
Verbal feedback: yeah
Non-verbal feedback: nod or smile
Tag questions
A question added to a statement signalling a response is expected
……., don’t you?
……., isn’t it?
Hedges/hedging
Word or phrase chosen to soften the impact of a response
Maybe, possibly, perhaps, it depends
Agenda setting
Who determines the key topic or when the topic of conversation changes is setting the agenda.
Domination- may sign of power or control
Topic shifts
Changes of topic in the conversation
Topic loops
When the topic of conversation returns to an earlier point or topic
Discourse marker
A word or phrase that signals a change in topic
So, getting back to, anyway
Opening and closing clauses
Openings e.g. Exchange of greetings, phatic exchanges
Closings e.g. See you soon, goodbyes