Text

1. Language of Non-Literary Texts

1.1 Definition of Text

  • The term "text" derives from the Latin word "texere" meaning "to weave".

  • Text can refer to written and spoken language; generally signifies an extract or a complete piece of writing or speech.

  • Texts follow conventions and rules governing language and structure in different types.

1.2 Characteristics of Texts

  • Self-contained

  • Well-formed

  • Cohesive (hang together)

  • Coherent (make sense)

  • Clear communicative purpose

  • Recognizable as specific text types

  • Contextually appropriate (Scott Thornbury, 2005)

1.3 Non-Literary vs Literary Texts

  • Formal Texts: May include specific structures, vocabulary, and tones appropriate for official or serious contexts.

  • Informal Texts: More casual language; may include slang or conversational styles.

  • The division may extend to whether a text is classified as literary (creative writing) or non-literary (functional communication).

1.4 Structure of Texts

  • Questions to consider:

    • What determines the structure?

    • Is structure uniform across all text types?

  • Organization of texts can be varied; not all texts are structured in sentences.

2. Discourse Analysis

2.1 Definitions

  • Discourse refers to the use of language in context, encompassing everything from short forms (grunts) to extensive literature (e.g., "War and Peace"). (Guy Cook)

  • Discourse analysis studies how language is employed for communication, indicating social constructs and meanings within texts.

2.2 Importance of Context in Discourse

  • Context shapes discourse in terms of:

    • Speakers’ gender, social status, and familiarity with each other.

    • Setting of the discourse.

    • Pragmatics: shared conventions and purpose of conversation.

2.3 Features of Spoken vs. Written Texts

  • Spoken texts are often collaboratively constructed and may reflect an array of social cues and emotional tones.

  • Written texts tend to be pre-planned and structured, showing clear grammar and layout.

  • Discourse can sometimes be ephemeral, especially in spoken forms.

3. Purpose and Function of Texts

3.1 Categorizing Purpose

  • Texts can function primarily to:

    • Persuade

    • Instruct or advise

    • Entertain

    • Inform

    • Threaten

    • Invite or request.

3.2 Analyzing Context and Interpretation

  • Understanding the intended meaning of texts involves:

    • Identifying the context and audience of the text.

    • Considering cultural knowledge of both producer and receiver.

  • Example questions:

    • How does context influence language choice?

    • Are purposes of texts clearly achieved?

4. Hybrid Texts

4.1 Characteristics of Hybrid Texts

  • Definition:

    • Hybrid texts incorporate elements from both spoken and written forms.

  • They may exhibit varying features of each type, responding to the context they are produced in.

4.2 Examples of Hybrid Forms

  • Text messages, social media posts, etc., often blend informal spoken language with some written conventions.

5. Homework and Self-Study

  • Explore pragmatics and discourse analysis.

  • Research or read about theories relevant to societal interactions through language, such as:

    • Symbolic Interactionist Theory

    • Dramaturgical Approach

  • Look into Walter Ong's "Orality and Literacy" for added depth.

6. Conclusion

  • Understanding different textual and communicative forms enhances interpretation and application of language in various contexts.