Lexis and semantics- word classes, lexical cohesion, lexical fields, semantic relationships, figurative language (metaphor).
Grammar- morphology and syntax- word formation, phrases, clauses, sentence types and function, grammar cohesion. This is how the page looks and how the text is presented.
Phonology- Sound production, phonemes, sound symbolism.
Pragmatics-Shared and implied meanings, conversational maxims, deixis. A person may say words clearly and use long, complex sentences with correct grammar, but still have a communication problem - if he or she has not mastered the rules for social language known as pragmatics . Adults may also have difficulty with pragmatics, for example, as a result of a brain injury or stroke.
Pragmatics involve three major communication skills:
- Using language for different purposes, such as
- greeting (e.g., hello, goodbye)
- informing (e.g., I'm going to get a cookie)
- demanding (e.g., Give me a cookie)
- promising (e.g., I'm going to get you a cookie)
- requesting (e.g., I would like a cookie, please)
- Changing language according to the needs of a listener or situation, such as
- talking differently to a baby than to an adult
- giving background information to an unfamiliar listener
- speaking differently in a classroom than on a playground
- Following rules for conversations and storytelling, such as
- taking turns in conversation
- introducing topics of conversation
- staying on topic
- rephrasing when misunderstood
- how to use verbal and nonverbal signals
- how close to stand to someone when speaking
- how to use facial expressions and eye contact
Discourse structure-Discourse patterns, discourse types.
Graphology-Shape, signs, logos, typographical features, space.
