Discourse Structure (spoken language)

Question 1

Turn taking

Answer 1

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)

Question 2

Overlaps/interruptions

Answer 2

Overlaps can indicate co-operation and agreement or a challenging interruption to signal disagreement or wish to change the topic

Question 3

Adjaceny pairs

Answer 3

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

Question 4

Chaining of adjaceny pairs

Answer 4

A chain of adjaceny pairs for a conversation to proceed

Question 5

Feedback (back channel behaviour)

Answer 5

Feedback given by a listener

Verbal feedback: yeah
Non-verbal feedback: nod or smile

Question 6

Tag questions

Answer 6

A question added to a statement signalling a response is expected

……., don’t you?
……., isn’t it?

Question 7

Hedges/hedging

Answer 7

Word or phrase chosen to soften the impact of a response

Maybe, possibly, perhaps, it depends

Question 8

Agenda setting

Answer 8

Who determines the key topic or when the topic of conversation changes is setting the agenda.

Domination- may sign of power or control

Question 9

Topic shifts

Answer 9

Changes of topic in the conversation

Question 10

Topic loops

Answer 10

When the topic of conversation returns to an earlier point or topic

Question 11

Discourse marker

Answer 11

A word or phrase that signals a change in topic

So, getting back to, anyway

Question 12

Opening and closing clauses

Answer 12

Openings e.g. Exchange of greetings, phatic exchanges

Closings e.g. See you soon, goodbyes