Leech

Question 1

Leech - Different Speech functions

Answer 1

Informational
Expressive
Transactional
Phatic
Interactional
Emotive

Question 2

Leech - Informational speech function

Answer 2

The speaker’s point of view (not attitude / interpretation)
PURPOSE - to share ideas with the audience; with the aim to increase their understanding, change their perception or help them gain new skills

E.g.
An informative speech about climate change shares the speaker’s opinions in order to change the listener’s perceptions

Question 3

Leech - Expressive speech function

Answer 3

Expresses the speaker’s thoughts and feelings (Speaker addresses a message)
- Typically defined through features of lexis
PURPOSE - to convey the speaker’s emotion or expression

E.g.
Exclamatives / Emotional lexis (swearing)
- I can’t wait for the weekend

Question 4

Leech - Transactional speech function

Answer 4

Designed to get something done / elevate status
- Requires reciprocation from others

E.g.
Gratitude: ‘Thank you’ - speaker gains social likeness while maintaining a relationship
- A motorist asking passer-bys for direction

Question 5

Leech - Phatic speech function

Answer 5

Speech which is devoid in content but supports social relationships
- contributes to positive face
- refusal: flouts maxim of quantity

E.g.
Small talk

Question 6

Leech - Interactional speech function

Answer 6

How people in social groups may talk to each other
PURPOSE - to establish and maintain social relations
- Used to achieve something
- People who already know each other

E.g.
Two friends who have not seen each other in a while stopping to have a chat

Question 7

Leech - Emotive speech function

Answer 7

Helps interpret emotions / feelings / desires of the speaker
FOCUS ON INTERJECTIONS - initial reactions

E.g.
Oh my God, I’m so excited