Language and Power IRF Theory in the classroom.

Question 1

Outline the Exchange Structure Theory Coulthard, Sinclair and Brazil 1975.

Answer 1

There are three stages.
(I) Initiation,
(R) Response.
(F) Feedback/Evaluation.

Move 1 - ask the question.
Move 2 - an answer is offered.
Move 3 - Comment on the answer.

Opening and closing framing moves can provide exchange boundaries before exchanges begin.

Question 2

Outline the two part exchange.

Answer 2

Adjacency pair: two utterances by different speakers that have a natural and logical link, and complete an idea together; a simple structure of two turns.

Introduction - greeting.
Question - answer.
Inform - acknowledge.
Complain - excuse.

Question 3

Outline Sinclair and Coulthards theory 1977.

Answer 3

According to Sinclair and Coulthard, there are three main functions of teacher talk:
Elicitation.
Informative.
Directive.

Modals are also significant forms of teacher talk as they are less formal and less blunt.

Elicitation exchanges generally follow a three part system:

1. Teacher elicits.
2. Pupil replies.
3. Teacher gives feedback.

Question 4

Define the verb elicit.

Answer 4

To draw out/evoke an answer, reaction or fact.

Question 5

Outline the system for inform.

Answer 5

1. Teacher informs.
2. Pupil accepts.
3. Teacher accepts.

Question 6

Outline the system for Direct.

Answer 6

1. Teacher directs.
2. Pupil reacts.
3. Teacher accepts.

Question 7

Outline Bloom’s taxonomy of Questioning.

Answer 7

Evaluation.
↓
Synthesis.
↓
Analysis.
↓
Application.
↓
Comprehension.
↓
Knowledge.

Question 8

Define Evaluation.

Answer 8

Make and defend judgements based on internal evidence or external criteria.

Question 9

Define Synthesis.

Answer 9

Compile component ideas into a new whole or propose alternative solutions.

Question 10

Define Analysis.

Answer 10

Break down objects or ideas into similar parts and find evidence to support generalisations.

Question 11

Define Application.

Answer 11

Apply knowledge to actual situations.

Question 12

Define Comprehension.

Answer 12

Demonstrate an understanding of the facts.

Question 13

Define knowledge.

Answer 13

Remember previously learned information.