10/27

Intro to Language

Agenda

Quotes about languageThree Rules about languageEND GOAL: Start to contemplate if

language is a reliable way of knowledge.

Quote 1

“Our language is the reflection of ourselves. A language is an exact reflection of the character and growth of its speakers.” –Cesar Chavez

What do you think of when you think of this quote: structure or content?

If someone were to examine your language- what would it say about your character?

Language vs. Non-Language

Language is…1- Rule-governed2- Intended3- Creative and open-ended

Language is rule-governed

Grammar Often times, no real reason, but all that

matters is that everyone agrees on the rule.

Vocabulary For communication to work, it does not

matter what noises or squiggles we correlate with objects, so long as there is general agreement within the tribe, group, community….

Rule- Governed

Do you think that there is a big enough focus on grammar and vocabulary in our school system? In your personal education? EXPLAIN your answer with detail.

HINT: Why is it/isn’t important to understand vocabulary and grammar?

Language is intended.

Language is a form of communication, but not all communication is language

You are bored in class and, while the teacher is writing on the board, you catch someone’s eye and make a yawning gesture.

You are trying to look interested in what someone says and to your HORROR you find yourself starting to yawn.

Language is Intended

You put $$ in vending machine, get snickers.

Although information was communicated, there is no language.

The vending machine does not UNDERSTAND that you want a snickers.

Language is intended.

Body Language

What do my two faces mean?

Language is intended.

Is body language a reliable way to obtain knowledge? What are some of the contributing factors you would need in order for it to be accurately interpreted?

Language is creative and open-ended.

We are able to create and understand sentences that we have never seen before. Like that one. And like that one up there.

Language is creative and open-ended.

Language changes and develops Selfie is now in the dictionary Shakespeare introduced several new

words: “obscene” “frugal” “dwindle” We constantly borrow words

Algebra – Arabic Kindergarten –German

Quote 2

“We’re losing social skills the human interaction skills, how to read a person’s mood, to read their body language, how to be patient until the moment is right to make or press a point. Too much exclusive use of electronic information dehumanizes what is a very, very, important part of community life and living together.” – Vincent Nichols

Agree? Disagree? Are you guilty?

Question 1

Describe body language that showcases:1- Power2- Unhappiness3- Anger4- Confusion5- Contentment

Body Language

Partner 1….

Body Language

Sadness

Body Language

Guess the emotion

Body Language

Partner 2….

Tired

Body Language

Guess the emotion

Body Language

Partner 1

Body Language

Fear

Body Language

Guess the emotion

Partner 2

Gratitude

Guess the emotion