1. Spoken Language Study Language and Technology
This presentation is designed to map to the following content in the 2010 GCSE specifications:
AQA English Language – Unit 3: Understanding Spoken and Written Texts and Writing Creatively, Spoken Language Study
Edexcel English Language – Unit 3: Spoken Language, Spoken Language Study
OCR English Language – Unit A652: Speaking, Listening and Spoken Language, Spoken Language
WJEC English Language – Unit 4: Spoken Language, Studying Spoken Language
Photo: © Qoqazian, Shutterstock.com

2. Learning objectives
Look at how language is influenced by changing technologies
Consider how speech and writing differ
Think about the features shared between electronic communication and speech
Analyse the use of language in text messages, s, social networking forums and instant messaging services

3. Language and technology
The evolution of the Internet and mobile phone technology has altered the way people communicate. As a result, new electronic forms of communication have emerged.
What is electronic communication?
Electronic communication includes:
text messages s
instant messages (e.g. MSN messenger)
social networking forums (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, MySpace)
blogs.
Photo: © Szymon Apanowicz, Shutterstock.com
In pairs, discuss the differences that technology has made to the way we communicate.

4. Speech v. writing
Teacher’s note: Challenge students to think of some exceptions to the conventions, for example, you may not use formal language when writing to a friend, etc.
Worksheet Two accompanies this slide.
Microphone: © RomanSigaev, Shutterstock.com
Pen: © keellla, Shutterstock.com

5. Instant messages and speech
Teacher’s note: Students might suggest that Internet relay chat is similar to spontaneous speech written down.
You may wish to discuss how in IM fonts and colours can be used to express emotion or personality. Ask students to consider how emotion is conveyed in text-speak, e.g. through emoticons and exaggerated punctuation, etc.
Photo: © Dmitriy Shironosov, Shutterstock.com