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Discussion of the use of language functions to teach and learn English using language tasks to focus on key phrases used to accomplish each function.
A language function explains why someone says something. For example, if you are teaching a class you'll have to give instructions. "Giving Instructions" is the language function.
Functions refer to what items of language actually do in a real context, as opposed to what they might mean literally. These include suggesting, criticising, refusing, agreeing and disagreeing, enquiring, talking about the past, and giving advice.
This paper aims to delve deeper into the nuances of English phrases and language functions while highlighting their differences. Language functions in English refer to how expressions are used to achieve different communicative purposes.
With Language Functions being the PURPOSE of language, Language Forms is all about the STRUCTURE of language. For example, vocabulary, syntax and grammar all play key roles in how well a function performs. As I plan out a language function unit, I think about what the end goal will be.
According to Halliday, the three main functions of language are the ideational function, which represents thoughts and ideas; the interpersonal function, which facilitates communication and social interactions; and the textual function, which organises and creates coherence within language.
Students use language functions in every grade level and across all content areas, so what better way to set English learners up for success than by explicitly teaching the academic language needed to successfully use language functions. Here is how this looks in my ESOL classroom.