Language, Tongue, Discourses and Meanings | Active Summary

Objectives

1.  Differentiate between language and speech, understanding how each manifests in our daily lives.

2.  Explore the different types of discourse, such as direct and indirect, and their application in various communicative situations.

Contextualization

Did you know that the choice between using direct or indirect discourse can completely alter the impact and interpretation of a message? 樂 In the world of politics, for example, the strategic use of these types of discourse can influence public opinion in surprising ways. This skill is not just for politicians; it is crucial for all of us in our daily interactions and when interpreting texts. By exploring these concepts, you are acquiring powerful tools to navigate and better understand the world around you!

Important Topics

Language vs. Speech

Language is a system of signs that allows communication between individuals of the same community, being a structured and standardized code. On the other hand, speech is the human capacity to communicate, expressing thoughts, ideas, and feelings symbolically, which can be oral, written, gestural, among other forms.

• Language is a system of signs legislated by a particular social group, such as Portuguese in Brazil.

• Speech, in turn, encompasses the entirety of human communication capability, including dialects, slang, and non-verbal forms of communication.

• Understanding this distinction is crucial for the critical analysis of how language is used and interpreted in different contexts.

Direct and Indirect Discourse

Direct discourse is when the speaker's words are reproduced exactly as they were said, while indirect discourse is a reformulation of the speaker's words, adapted by the enunciator. The choice between one or the other can alter the impact and meaning of the message.

• Direct discourse is more common in dialogue situations or in narratives aiming to give liveliness to characters.

• Indirect discourse is frequently used in news and academic texts, where objectivity and distance from the enunciator are valued.

• Knowing how to differentiate and use these discourses appropriately is essential for clear and effective communication.

Critical Analysis of Discourses

Critically analyzing a discourse involves questioning not only what was said but also how it was said, by whom, and for whom. This allows for a deeper understanding of the speaker's intentions and the effects that the message can cause.

• Identifying elements such as the use of adjectives, source selection, and argument structure helps to understand the persuasion strategies used in the discourse.

• This skill is valuable for media education, where the ability to evaluate and interpret discourses is essential for critical participation in society.

• Promoting critical analysis from an early age prepares students to be informed consumers and effective communicators.

Key Terms

• Language: A system of signs legislated by a social group to allow communication.

• Speech: Human capacity to communicate, expressing thoughts and feelings symbolically.

• Direct Discourse: Exact reproduction of the speaker's words, used to give liveliness and immediacy to dialogue or narrative.

• Indirect Discourse: Reformulation of the speaker's words, adapted by the enunciator, is more commonly used in formal narratives or news.

To Reflect

• How do you think the choice between direct and indirect discourse can affect how news is perceived by the public?

• In what way can understanding the difference between language and speech help in intercultural communication?

• Think of an example of how critical analysis of discourses could change your interpretation of a text or video you have seen.

Important Conclusions

• Today, we explored the universe of language and speech, understanding how language is a standardized system and speech encompasses all forms of human communication. We discussed the importance of recognizing and applying direct and indirect discourse in different contexts, which can significantly alter the interpretation of messages.

• We highlighted the relevance of critical analysis of discourses to better understand the intentions behind the words and how this affects our perception and actions. These skills are not merely academic but essential for everyday life and for active and informed participation in society.

To Exercise Knowledge

1. Create a dialogue in your favorite comic book, using both direct and indirect discourse, and explain how each affects the narrative. 2. Watch a news report and identify examples of direct and indirect discourse, discussing how these choices influence the presentation of the news. 3. Write a short essay on a topic of your choice, alternating between direct and indirect discourse to tell different aspects of the story.

Challenge

 Detective Linguistic Challenge: Throughout the week, try to identify and note examples of direct and indirect discourses that you hear or read in your daily life. At the end of the week, share with the class and discuss the possible reasons behind the choices of discourses.

Study Tips

• Use mind maps to connect the concepts of language, speech, and discourse with practical examples that you find in your daily life, such as in songs, movies, or conversations.

• Practice rewriting news or dialogues in different types of discourse to enhance your ability to choose the most appropriate one for the context.

• Discuss with friends or family how using different discourses can change the perception of the same event, applying what you learned to analyze real situations.