All languages have rules. We learn these rules throughout our lives. Some of these rules are more innate, such as understanding how to use the correct words and verb tense in conversation. Other rules are more academic, such as how to use specific terminology in an academic paper. Learning the rules and traits of a language helps us to be better communicators.
Prepare
One way to learn more about your own native language is to learn about another language. To prepare for this assignment:
1. Select a language other than your native cultural language. This may mean a dialect commonly used by smaller groups of people, and meanings may not be easily understood by others.
2. Research your chosen language to learn more about its phonology, semantics, and syntactics.
Instructions
After you have researched a language other than your native language, create a short presentation in which you accomplish the following:
• Provide examples for the traits of phonology, semantics, and syntactics.
• Explain what a language suggests about its culture.
o For example, the English language borrows extensively from other languages and tends to reflect the melting pot nature of U.S. culture.
• Discuss communication issues that arise because of the differences in languages.
• Present coherently to support a central idea in appropriate format.
o Maintain a steady pace and good eye contact, and practice your speech before you record.
o Deliver and record your speech in Kaltura or another technology that your instructor can access and grade.
o If you use Kaltura, make your recording public in Kaltura. Submit the link in the assignment area.
Evaluate communication issues and trends of various cultures within the United States.
o Provide examples for the traits of phonology, semantics, and syntactics.
o Discuss communication issues that arise because of the differences in languages.
• Competency 3: Demonstrate knowledge, skills, and attitudes to increase intercultural competence.
o Explain what a language suggests about its culture.
• Competency 5: Communicate effectively in a variety of formats and contexts.
o Present coherently to support a central idea in appropriate format.