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MODULE 2: defining language

CHARACTERISTICS OF LANGUAGE
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A: Human
B: Verbal​
Language is classified as human because it is different from animal language. It is systematic, symbolic, social, arbitrary, cultural dynamic, and meaningful. All these traits make language human because animal language does not possess these characteristics. Human language allows speakers to express their thoughts in sentences that have parts of speech i.e., subject, verb, and noun. Essentially, we have a more complex way of speaking to each other.
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Language is classified as verbal because we make sounds when we talk, so it is spoken. Verbal communication is defined as a kind of communication where we use not only spoken words, but written words to get our message and written words to another person. Therefore, for verbal communication to exist, we need to speak, talk, and use our words. We can also mask or reveal our true thoughts and feelings with the words that we choose. 
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C: ​Symbolic
D: ​Systematic
Language is symbolic because it is literally created with symbols. Symbols are things that represent something else. Symbols can be communicated verbally, nonverbally, or in writing. Therefore, language is a symbolic system of communication based on a complex system of written, signed, and spoken rules.
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Language is systematic because it is NOT arranged randomly, but rather in a very structured and particular way. An example of this is seen in the fact that some sounds only exist in particular languages and cannot be found in others, and, depending on where they are placed (in different languages) they mean different things.
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E: ​Maturational
F: ​Non-Instinctive
G: ​Dynamic
Language is maturational because the words literally mature. They change in meaning and even parts of speech. Therefore, language is dynamic, NOT static, it changes and adapts to the needs of the users. The result of this is that new words appear regularly, so the language that we use now will be different from the language that our ancestors a hundred years ago, even the language that our parents use will be different from how we speak now.
Language is non-instinctive because it is naturally acquired. This means that language is the outcome of evolution and convention, aka culture, which is passed down through generations. Language communicates values, beliefs, and customs and fosters feelings of group identity and solidarity. Humans have a history because of language, which separates us from the animals. 
Language is dynamic because it adapts to the needs of its users, therefore it is always changing and evolving. Therefore, there will always be new words added to dictionaries, new pronunciations, and new grammar rules.
LANGUAGE & COMMUNICATIVE BEHAVIOURS
Non-verbal communication has six basic functions concerning language::
  • substituting for words 
  • reinforcing words
  • regulating how the verbal message is received
  • contradicting the verbal message
  • managing impression or the way other people perceive you  establishing relationships
Communicative behaviours such as vocalics, proxemics, artifacts, movement, and chronemics are the physical manifestations of these functions. Social, political, and cultural factors will influence how we use these communicative behaviours.
LANGUAGE VS. 'A LANGUAGE'


​Language (generic) is a system of communication used by humans, using written and vocal symbols, as well as body movements and gestures. 
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‘A language’ is the language that is particular to a certain geographic region or group of people.
PURPOSES OF LANGUAGE
Persuade - to induce someone to do something, or change their opinion, based on reasoning or argument.

Question - A sentence that is posed in an interrogative form to receive an informed response.

Directing - A process of instructing, guiding, inspiring, and leading people towards the accomplishment of a goal or task.

Providing aesthetic pleasure - This refers to language that is organized pleasantly to elicit feelings (good or bad). For example, creative writing.

Inform - to give facts or information, to tell.
DIALECTAL VARIATIONS
Variation is a different or distinct form or version of something. Standard is something used as a measure, norm, or model, in this case, standard English. A dialect is a variation of English.

Dialectal variation refers to spoken and written differences in the use of language within a speech community; in our case English. Speech-related variation within the Caribbean may be allocated on the Creole continuum. This is a spectrum of language variation linking the more standard end of the linguistic range to the Creole end. In short, acrolect refers to the standard variety of the language; mesolect refers to varieties that are closer in features to the standard language and which are primarily used in urban areas. The basilect represents the variety mainly used in the rural areas and which has mainly creole features. In commenting on dialectal variation the student needs to be aware of the different types of English used and spoken in the Caribbean. Their difference is apparent in their accent and inflection. These include:
LANGUAGE REGISTERS
This refers to the kinds of English appropriate to a particular purpose or situation. It refers to the levels of formality/ informality and tone that are correct for a specific context. A register can refer to either written or spoken language. In deciding which register is suitable for a given situation one has to consider factors such as the audience or written about, the medium which may/may not include verbal elements of communication, and the writer’s attitude towards the content he writes about.
Language registers may be identified as:
Contributor: Leisa Samuels-Thomas
                   Sharon Thorpe (Immaculate Conception High School, Jamaica)
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​https://bilingualkidspot.com/2022/07/27/characteristics-of-language/
​https://pumble.com/blog/verbal-communication/#:~:text=Verbal%20communication%20is%20a%20type,thoughts%2C%20we%20are%20verbally%20communicating


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