Join Our Groups
TOPIC 2: USING APPROPRIATE LANGUAGE CONTEXT AND STYLE IN SPEAKING
Language
is a system of symbols that permit people to communicate or interact. Symbols
can include vocal and written forms, gestures and body language. Language may
be described in terms of four basics language skills; listening, speaking,
reading as well as writing.
People
generally learn these four skills from stage to stage, main focus in this
topic will be in writing as well as speaking. Writing refers to process of
reproducing symbols on paper to create words with meaning.
DEBATE
A
debate is a formal discussion during which people take sides to express their
views or opinions support or opposition to a given subject. Or, is a
method of formally presenting an argument in a displined manner through
logical consistency, factual accuracy and some degree of emotional appeal to
the audience. Debate
may be done in schools, community and other social contexts.
Format of Debates
Two
groups are formed they comprise of a propossing and opposing side. Each side
argues for their views and are judged by the judging team under a set
criteria.
Types of Debate
1.
Parliamentary
Debates: Take place in parliament and other legislatures. Members
debate proposals regarding legislation before voting on the resolutions which
become laws.
2.
Competitive
Debating: Teams compete against each other and are judged by a
list of criteria usually based on content, style and strategy, this may be
done at local, national or international level.
3.
Impromptu
Debate: Is relatively informal style of debating compared to other
highly structured formats. A topic is given to participants twenty minutes
before the debates begins is characterised by a simple format.
Things to Consider
during Debate
When
participating in any debate in school in or any other place, remember to
adhere to the following principles.
a)
Introduction: start with a good introduction. In the introduction do the
followings things:
1.
Greet the debate participants according to their status or positions in that
debating session.
2.
Extend appreciations to the chairperson and other special people who have
organized the debate. You may simply say ‘thank you’.
3.
State your position, whether you belong to the opposing side or the proposing
side.
b)
Repeat reading the motion and start giving your opinions and arguments
according to your stand; whether you are opposing or proposing the motion.
c)
Be clear during your presentation. The language should be understandable and
the voice should be audible.
d)
Present your ideas or facts logically and fluently. For more emphasis you can
use words or phrases like; in fact, due to the fact that, to prove my point,
for more clarification, etc.
e)
Where possible or necessary, support your arguments with evidence.
f)
Be straight to the point in order to keep pace with time.
g)
Finish your presentation by simply saying ‘thank you’
.
h)
Be patient when other participants unleash a scathing attack or level
pricking criticism at your arguments.
One
needs to be aware of the language diction to employ during debates. Most
often, language diction should always focus on expressing ideas, opinions,
language. some of the phrases/words used in debates include: I think, in my
opinion, in view of this, having said that/this, therefore, however, finally,
eventually, moreover, despite the, even thought, etc. Observe the following extract:
Despite
the good comments given by the contemporary commentator, in my view, I would
rather comment the other way round that abstinence, being faithful or condom
use (ABC) alone are not the only solutions against HIV/AIDS infection. Some
people are being infected with HIV/AIDS through sharing razor blades, shaving
machines, blood transfusion, etc. here, the main speaker from the opposing
side views the spread of HIV/AIDS in a very myopic way. The speaker has to be
aware that sexual intercourse is not the only way which accelerates HIV/AIDS
infections, but it is among several factors which accelerate HIV/AIDS
infections in the society.
Another
important thing in debate is that one needs to practice on how to play with
words of the particular language in various situations. A speaker should bear
in mind that the audience are normally interested with the message that the
speaker has. So, one should use simple language when presenting his or her
arguments during the debating session. This means that a speaker should avoid
using difficult and complex words or phrases. If one needs to employ
bombastic words, they should make sure that they use those words
appropriately.
Furthermore,
the arguments should be presented in a convincing and attracting way so as to
avoid boring the audience. It should be borne in mind that the primary goal
of most academic debates is to improve language competence, performance and
develop persuasive skills.
Study
the following example of a debate then answer the questions which follow
below:
Proposition/Motion
“Science and technology have brought more harm than good to
third world countries”
Introduction/Greetings.
The
speaker greets all the important participants in accordance with their social
status: For example, thank you chairperson, secretary, matron / patron,
timekeeper, principal speakers from both sides, the guest of honor, and all
the participants/audience. I first of all thank the chairperson and his/her
team for organizing this long-awaited debate.
As
far as the motion is concerned, I am here as an oppose of the motion which
says, “Science and Technology have Brought More Harm than Good to Third World
Countries”.
Make short and
precise elaboration about the motion
If
the chairperson has not elaborated the motion, principal speakers may do so.
Other speakers from the floor the may begin directly to describe their main
points so as to avoid tautology and also because of limited time. Example on
how to elaborate hey concepts of the motion:
Science
is the body of knowledge and skills which may be natural, learned or acquired
in various ways. Technology is the application of science. Technology tries
to put that knowledge and skills into use. These two terms are interrelated
and they may simply mean that science is the software and technology is the
hardware.
Start
giving your arguments according to your stand in the debate. The points for
each side may be given as follows:
Affirmative
Side/Constructive Speech/Proposing Side
Moral
erosion due to acquiring different kinds of information from televisions and
other information media like tabloids, newspapers, magazines, internet, etc.
All forms of pollution like air pollution, water pollution, noise pollution,
land pollution, etc. are caused by outdated vehicles which are imported in
third world countries. Land degradation and soil erosion due to the use of
artificial fertilizers and other modern forms of farming system.
Spread
of diseases like cancer, diabetes due to the use of genetically modified food
and other imported food stuffs; HIV/AIDS due to social interaction with
different people from different countries, and eye diseases due to the use of
computers, etc. Spread of western culture into Africa, which tends to be more
powerful and thus dominating the African cultures. Killing of the indigenous
industries and skills due to frequent use of computers, calculators, and
other electronic equipment which simplify work.
Deterioration
of education and African languages caused by computer and internet
technology. Most materials given to students and mode of teaching do not
reflect the African setting. The African environment does support the use of
computers and other forms of electrified equipment due to inadequate power
supply, especially in the rural areas.
Negative
Side/Rebuttal Speech/Opposing Side
Science
and technology have brought less harmful effects to developed countries and
instead have boosted the socio-economic growth of almost all the developing
countries in the following aspects:
1.
Improvement of transport systems like roads, airways, waterways, etc., which
also facilitate the movement of people and goods within the countries and
outside the countries and continents.
2.
Advancement in information and communication technologies: People can now
communicate with anyone at any place within a flash of a minute by using
cellular phones, e-mail technology, etc.
3.
Creation of employment: people are employed in various companies as computer
experts and thus improving their life standards.
4.
Dissemination of information through various mass media like television,
radio, newspaper, etc.
5.
Improvement of agriculture and other economic sectors through the use of
modern machines and other forms of mechanization.
6.
Advancement in the provision of medical services by using computers,
ultra-sound machines and other forms of services on the one hand; and
education services by using computers, liquid crystal display (LCD) projects,
over-head projectors and other modern forms of classroom presentation
facility, on the other hand.
Judge’s
judgments and determination
Judge’s
judgment and determination concerning the motion and arguments given by the
proposers and the opposes depend on the points given by both sides and the
views of the audience. In this case, the affirmative side has a great chance
to win the debate because they have seven points.
DIALOGUE
Dialogue
is the interpersonal talk that basically involves two people, but in some
circumstances, it may involve more two people. Dialogue involves spoken
language or speech and is characterized by typical features of speech sounds.
Dialogue is very wide in its meaning. However, it is important to the spoken
language like in drama, interviews, telephone and the like.
Dialogue may
be of various forms:
1.
Egalitarian
Dialogue, refers to the concept of dialogic learning, it may be
defined as dialogue in which contributions are considered according to the
validity of their reasoning instead of status or position of power of those
who make them.
2.
Structured
Dialogue, refers to the disciplined form of dialogue where
participants agree to follow framework or facilitation, Also enables groups
to address complex shared problems. Structured dialogue is employed to
complex problems such as peace making and indigenous community development.
Dialogue
Interviews
Dialogue
interview involve verbal interaction between two sides. Unlike written
interview, dialogues interview need special attention and accuracy because
the interviewer and interviewee engage themselves in a face-to face
interaction. Dialogue interview may also be referred to as a face-to face
interview between an interviewer and the interviewee (respondent).
In
most cases the interview is done when one conducts a research or study, when
one side seeks for an employment, scholarship visa, etc and the other side
wants to know the background, intention, and the experience of the
interviewee. The interviewee (respondent) must know the basic regulations
that apply before and during the interview. These regulations are based on
the appearance of the respondent, the style of presentation and the content
or the theme he/she is interviewed on.
Dialogue
interview can also be conducted online by using a telephone. This interview
can be done with someone who is far and cannot easily reach the interviewer.
For example, a person in Dar es Salaam may interview someone who is in Mbeya
or London by using a telephone or a cellular phone.
INTERVIEW
Refers
to conversation between two or more people in which person is asked question
in order to know the facts and capability of person needed for particular
position or job
Person
who ask questions is called interviewer,
and Person who answers questions from interviewer is called interviewee. Interview also used in
journalism and reporting news
Characteristics
of an Interview
1.
An interview is more personal a questionnaire.
2.
The interviewer works directly with the interviewee.
3.
Interviews are time consuming and resource intensive.
4.
An interviewer is trained to test individuals.
5.
Provides opportunity of face to face interaction between interviewer and
interviewee.
Important
Things to Consider for Interviews
1.
Know exactly the theme/topic or content he/she is going to be interviewed on.
2.
Prepare important documents that might be required by interviewers. E.g
certificates and other crucial documents.
3.
Imagine possible questions to be asked during the interview and find their
answers.
4.
Make a rehearsal on all the processes, especially on the speaking style.
5.
Knowledge of your resume. You have to know the ins and outs of your resumes
after receiving call of interview from a recruiter.
6.
Find out about the company background, annual report and management profile.
7.
Study all data before the interview since knowledge of the company makes a
great impression.
8.
Try to challenge yourself with various questions-and answer them but do not
focus on salary or benefits.
9.
What to wear, a make good choice of clothes to wear for most preferred
colours are grey, blue, black and remember to stay away from bright colours.
10.
Hairstyle matters, choose simple styles.
11.
Put you forms and other paper work together a day before the interview and
remember to have multiple copies of your resumes.
12.
A Good night's rest is essential to wak up fresh fro the next day.
13.
Your confidence, exude your confidence, body language will speak louder than
what you say. remember to use hand gestures and pay attention to your
actions.
14.
Avoid awkward dresses, funny hair styles and do not be under or over dressed.
15.
If possible. Make a preliminary visit to investigate some important things
through people who have been employed in the particular institution or
company. You may investigate things like salary, the nature of questions
asked, etc.
The following
are some tips on how to prepare for job interview:
1.
Read widely on the subject you are to be interviewed on
2.
On the night before the interview, prepare all the documents you need to
carry with you for interview, such as certificates, publications and
testimonials. Make sure you sleep early.
3.
On the interview day, dress smartly, decently and formally. Do not use too
much make up
4.
Arrive at the interview venue at least an hour before the interview
5.
When you walk into interview room, remain standing until offered a eat
6.
Maintain eye contact without staring at them and be relaxed
7.
Give a clear, precise and concise answer
8.
Do not digress into irrelevant details If a question is not clear, ask for
clarification in a polite manner
9.
Thank interviews at the end of the interview and remember to carry your
documents with you
During the
interview
1.
Avoid awkward mannerism like playing with a key holder, chewing gums or
swinging your legs.
2.
Be confident and make yourself comfortable; sit on the chair squarely not on
the sides.
3.
Listen carefully to what is being asked. If it is not clear, ask for
clarification by using. “I beg your pardon”, but not too often.
4.
Try to be brief in answering and avoid saying “Yes” or “No” to most of the
questions. If you don’t know the answer, say so politely.
5.
Look straight at the interviewer when answering a question, and be yourself,
i.e. don’t imitate other people.
6.
Use simple and clear language; also be audible to everybody in the room.
7.
Don’t try to impress the interviewers. Be grateful for anything done for you
say, “thank you sir madam”.
8.
Don’t interrupt the interviewers.
9.
When the interview is over say, “thank you”.
 IMPROMPTU SPEAKING
Impromptu
speeches are those which are delivered or offered while the speaker is
unprepared. The main characteristic features of impromptu speeches are that
they are unplanned, not rehearsed, etc. these speeches are also
referred to as informal speeches.
People
frequently make informal speeches. These speeches can be brief as an
introduction of one fried to another. They are also as casual as telling a
group of friends what you did during your family’s vacation. Impromptu
speeches require rarely advance preparation because of their brevity,
informal nature and casual style. Unlike impromptu speeches, formal speeches
are rehearsed and are delivered in a more formal setting.
Example of
topics for impromptu speaking are:
1.
Tell us how to make new friend
2.
Tell us about your favourite holiday
3.
Exams are/are not good forms of assessments
Competitors
success and ranking is ultimate determined by judges decision
Guidelines for
an Impromptu speech:
1.
Do not panic. Be calm and composed.
2.
Quickly take down a few important points about the topic.
3.
Walk slowly to the platform if you are required to do so.
4.
Remember the points already made by other speakers and avoid repeating them.
5.
Be brief and relevant.
6.
Maintain eye contact with the listeners as you speak.
Criteria that
Competitors and Judges should Adhere
1.
Avoid exceeding two minutes on preparations
2.
Create an interpretation of prompt use it to establish argument or thesis
3.
Use heavenly examples such as historical background to support their argument
4.
Advanced speakers often use theories in conjunction with examples to
illustrate them
5.
Speaker are advised not to use pre prepared impromptu speech
Presentation
1.
Introduction: Inform your audience that you are organizing your thoughts as
you speak This will help you relax, when you realize you had forgotten an
important point
2.
If the topic is controversial, state your position very clearly
3.
Give your points, the facts statistics (if you have any) and example,
supporting your approach in the introduction
4.
Conclusion: If it is a controversial topic briefly restate your position and
only recommendations as you conclude
Impromptu
speeches are neither written nor organized but may involve informal
discussion in an informal setting.
The Major
Items of an Informal Speech are:
1.
Salutation – when we address the audience, we start by mentioning with the
most superior people, downwards.
2.
Make an introductory remark on the item you are going to speak about, i.e.
any background information on what you are going to say.
3.
Provide some information that is new to the audience about the subject.
4.
Introduce a little humor (funny, interesting comments) to entertain the
listeners.
5.
Avoid hurtful, offensive or aggressive comments that may embarrass the
audience or particular individuals.
6. Apology – if it is a farewell speech or a speech
that calls for an apology.
7. If there is a reward, it should be given at the
end of the speech.
8. Express best wishes at the end.
Present
Fact/Ideas Logically and Fluently
Word
fact originated from Latin word FACTUM which means thing to be done or
performed. Something that really occurred or in case. Facts refers to the
truth known by actual experience or observation, something to be true. Facts
also may be knowledge or information based ion real occurrence.
For
example when one says Nyerere died in 1999 that will be a fact since has
based on real occurance. One may say Aisha is honest there is no clear
evidence about it so that will not be fact rather than opinion.
OPINIONS
Refers
to view or judgment formed about something not necessarily based on facts or
knowledge. Also may be statement of advice from expert on professional
matter. It is not necessarily for opinion being proven to be opinion but
facts needs to be proven so as to be facts.
|
I like the notes very much,please would you continue updating more new notes!!
ReplyDelete