Pragmatics

Pragmatics are the norms of conversation a.k.a. how we communicate with one another. The four standards or assumptions of communication are truth, information, relevance and clarity.

Communication fails if the information we are given isn’t truthful, contains too much information (“TMI” in many houses), is unconnected or ambiguous.

The four domains of reading, writing, speaking and listening are how these standards are navigated and collaboratively constructed within context and in social situations.

Reading means comprehending the written word, the subtlety, the nuance. Is the author being sincere, humorous, sympathetic, sarcastic, or sardonic? What is the subliminal message in the words and syntax of the text?

Writing involves those nuances of specificity and formality based on the author’s purpose. Is the author promoting a specific course of action? Requesting a favor? A raise? What is the format of the writing? Is it a formal report? A memo? An email?

Speaking like writing requires the correct register of formality. Beyond the spoken word what is also communicated non-verbally? Or shouldn’t be said at all? Would you speak to the superintendent of the school the same way you would to a colleague, a friend, your students or your family?  Most people don’t even speak to their parents the same way they speak to their spouse or children.

Listening involves probabilistic reasoning – guessing what comes next and making reasonable interpretations of discourse markers, non-verbal cues, incomplete sentences, and at times, silence.

Our ELs need that pragmatic ability and knowledge to not only understand what was said but to be able to go beyond the literal meaning of the words used and comprehend the unexpressed or unsaid meanings to read between the lines.