The Difference Between Discourse and Pragmatics | ESOL/ESL Exam

Summary

In this video, the speaker clarifies the difference between discourse and pragmatics, two key linguistic concepts that often confuse ESOL students. Discourse focuses on how we communicate through sentence structure and grammar to ensure mutual understanding. Pragmatics, however, relates to how cultural norms and social context influence language use, such as speaking differently to friends versus teachers or varying speech in different regions. The speaker also recommends additional resources and ESOL test preparation materials available on KathleenJasper.com to help students with various exams. This video offers valuable insights for those preparing for ESOL assessments.

Takeaways

• 😀 Discourse is the way in which we communicate, focusing on clarity and correct use of language.
• 😀 Pragmatics is about the cultural and societal norms that influence how we use language in different contexts.
• 😀 Discourse involves grammar and sentence structure, but perfect grammar isn't necessary for understanding.
• 😀 Pragmatics is influenced by society, culture, and the social relationship between speakers.
• 😀 In discourse, you communicate what you need clearly, but there must be some cohesion for comprehension.
• 😀 The way we speak changes depending on who we are talking to—friends, teachers, or strangers.
• 😀 Cultural differences affect communication styles, such as directness in the North vs. indirectness in the South of the U.S.
• 😀 In Spanish, different forms of 'you' (informal 'tú' vs. formal 'usted') are used depending on social context.
• 😀 Discourse is more about the structure and understanding of language, while pragmatics is about appropriateness and social context.
• 😀 The speaker isn't an ESOL expert but suggests following specialists on Instagram and TikTok for more detailed insights.
• 😀 The speaker provides resources on their website, including study guides and online courses to help prepare for various ESOL exams.

Q & A

What is the difference between discourse and pragmatics as described in the video?

Discourse refers to how we communicate and structure our sentences to be understood, with a focus on grammar, sentence structure, and cohesion. Pragmatics, on the other hand, involves the cultural norms and societal context of language use, focusing on how language varies depending on the relationship between the speaker and the listener, such as in formal or informal settings.

Why do people often have trouble distinguishing between discourse and pragmatics?

People find it difficult to distinguish between discourse and pragmatics because these concepts are interrelated. Both deal with communication, but discourse focuses on the structure and understanding of language, while pragmatics concerns the social and cultural context in which language is used.

How does discourse help in communication?

Discourse helps in communication by ensuring that words are put together in a way that allows the listener to understand the message. It involves naming objects correctly (e.g., calling a car a car, not a bus), and while grammar doesn't need to be perfect, there must be some cohesion for clear understanding.

What role does culture play in pragmatics?

Culture plays a significant role in pragmatics as it influences how we use language depending on societal norms. For example, people from different regions, like the Northeast and South of the United States, may speak differently, with one group possibly being more direct and another more indirect in their communication.

Can you provide an example of how pragmatics differs based on location?

Yes, for example, in Spanish-speaking countries, different regions may have varying ways of speaking the same language. People in one region might use certain expressions or formalities that differ from another region, even though they are all speaking Spanish.

How do you speak differently to a teacher versus a friend according to pragmatics?

When speaking to a teacher, you would use more formal language and politeness, like saying, 'Good morning, Miss Smith. May I please borrow a pencil?' In contrast, speaking to a friend might involve informal language, like saying, 'Hey, what's up?' or 'Give me that.'

What is an example of pragmatics in Spanish regarding the word 'you'?

In Spanish, the word for 'you' can vary based on formality. 'Tú' is used informally among friends, while 'Usted' is used formally to address someone of higher authority or in a more respectful context, like speaking to a teacher or professor.

What does the speaker clarify about their expertise in ESOL education?

The speaker clarifies that they are not an expert in ESOL education but have undergone significant training in it. They have a degree in educational leadership, and ESOL was a key part of that. They recommend following true ESOL experts on platforms like Instagram and TikTok for more in-depth information.

Where can viewers find more information on ESOL programs according to the video?

Viewers can find more information on ESOL programs on the speaker's website, KathleenJasper.com, where they offer both a study guide and an online course. The course is designed to help prepare for various ESOL exams, including the Praxis ESOL, Texas exams, and others.

What resources are available on KathleenJasper.com for ESOL exam preparation?

On KathleenJasper.com, there is a digital download for a study guide priced at $25.99, and a physical copy is available through Amazon. Additionally, there is an online course that includes the study guide and is designed to help prepare for ESOL-related exams like the Praxis and others.