1.1.

Nature of Language
Intended Learning Outcomes:(ILOs)
At the end of the session, the student should be able to:

1. identify the key ideas in language and communication;

2. illustrate the role of language in human communication;

3. evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the communication types in various communication

settings;
What is language?
o Language is a source of communication. It is a means through which thoughts, feelings, and
ideas between individuals are exchanged.

oLinguist agree that a language can only be called a language if it has a system of rules (also
known as grammar ), a sound system (phonology ), and a vocabulary (lexicon ). These are the
requirements for identifying a means of communication as a language.

oThus, we see that when we talk of language, it is just not the mere verbal language that we mean
though that represents the most complex and advanced form of language and its importance in
communication.
When people use language, While growing up, people
they can understand each acquire the language used
other because they belong by those in the community.
to the same speech This is the process of
community. language acquisition.

The languages acquired

while growing up are
known as mother tongues,
which may also be referred
to as first languages.
1.2. Communication
According to Mode,
Context, Purpose, & Style
What is Communication?

Depending on what is being considered, communication as a term takes on different

contexts resulting in people having different views on communication types.

Since communication is generally defined as the Context is the circumstance or environment in which
exchange of thoughts , ideas, concepts, and communication takes place. Such circumstance may
include the physical or actual setting , the value positions
views between or among two or more people, of a speaker/listener, and the relevance or appropriateness
various contexts come into play. of a message conveyed.
Types of Communication
According to Mode
A message may be conveyed vis these types: verbal – non-verbal
and visual.
o Verbal communication is the use of spoken words in order to
relay messages through face to face, audio or video, calls,
lectures, meetings, radio and television.
o Non-verbal communication is the use of voice, personal space
or and personal in order to convey a message. Non – verbal
communication is subjective and cultural, therefore, there is a
need to have a careful analysis of the message to avoid
miscommunication or misunderstanding.
o Visuals refer to the use of images, graphs, charts, logos and
maps. Visuals are usually used to support some lengthy
explanations and presentations.
Types of Communication According to
Context
Intrapersonal – this means Extended- this type of
Interpersonal – also known as
talking to oneself, this happens communication is with the use of
the face-to-face communication,
when a person needs to boost his electronic media. Thru internet
this type of communication
or her confidence, praise himself connection, communication of
meant to start or deepen a
or herself of doing a good job or people who are separated by
harmonious relationship with
to console when he or she did time and distance becomes quick
others.
the tasks poorly. and possible.

Intercultural – it is
Organizational- this type of
communication between or
communication happens in the
among people having different
workplace; this can be formal or
linguistic, religious, ethnic, social
informal.
and professional backgrounds.
Types of Communication According to
Purpose and Style
This type of communication focuses on the communication setting and mode of delivery
o Formal – employs formal language delivered orally or in written form, usually the settings are
in schools or when giving lectures, public talks, research proposals and business letters.
o Informal – it involves personal and ordinary conversation with friends, family members or
acquaintances about any topic to simply socialize or enhance relationship.
Teaching and Learning Activities:
Question and Answer portion:

1. What is language?
2. What is the difference between language and communication?
3. What is the role of language in the communication process?
Assignment:
List the advantages and disadvantages of the different communication types in various
communication settings.

◦ (Give at least three advantages and three disadvantages)