1. A way of knowing

2. It is rule-governed. It is intended. It is creative and open-ended.

3. Language is a sub-set of communication, but not all communication is language.

4. Language is symbolic.

5. Language enables us to communicate new information, to learn about people and places and ideas we have never encountered before…

7. There is an element of translation in every communication. A sends a message to B. B receives the message and interprets it. Misunderstanding takes place.

8. Why is it so difficult to communicate effectively?

9. Some of the reasons… Most of the message we communicate is non-verbal. The words we use are vague, imprecise, and can be interpreted in different ways. We may have a “hidden agenda” that is not mutually understood. In this community, we all have different language histories and experiences – verbal and non-verbal! This contributes to the “problem” of communication.

10. Problems of meaning Language changing Propaganda and manipulation through language

11. Problems of meaning Vagueness Ambiguity Secondary meaning Metaphor Irony

12. Because sometimes it matters.

13. Context Untranslatable words Idioms

14. Criteria for effective translation: Faithfulness Comprehensibility Back translation

15. Changing Language Language reflects our changing world.

16. Gender issues Political correctness Technology Slang International travel Internet + media

17. Language is used to influence and persuade.

19. Weasel Words “many” “should” “probably”

20. Grammar “Sebastian broke my leg.” “My leg broke.”

21. Revealing and Concealing Euphemisms: “hygiene technician” David Lega

22. Propaganda

23. Some questions for discussion in TOK groups : How does language influence your perception/ emotion / reason? Is mathematics a language? What kinds of texts are easiest to translate? Which are the most difficult? How can you make sure you have understood a message that is conveyed to you? What arguments are there for and against political correctness? What are the problems of language for someone with autism/Asperger’s syndrome?