1. “Discovering the Power of Oral Language”
Chapter 4
“Discovering the Power of Oral Language”

2. Topics of Discussion Defining Language
Characteristics of oral language
Characteristics of speech sounds
Putting language into perspective
Understanding and using power language
Understanding levels of usage
Functions of oral language
Language to avoid

3. “The Nature of Oral Language”
Section 1
“The Nature of Oral Language”

4. Defining Language Language has rules Rules differ from written
Seldom taught directly
Learned from listening and using

5. Defining Language
Language is like a code

6. Characteristics of Oral Language
Meaning

7. Characteristics of Oral Language
Vocabulary
Need variety of words just like you need variety of clothes

8. Characteristics of Oral Language
Structure
Way parts of language are arranged
Grammar
Basic understanding of rules that regulate language

9. Characteristics of Oral Language
Sound
Dr Fox Hypothesis
People are judged on speech sounds
The way you sound affects message

10. Why building vocabulary is important
Makes an impression of who you are and what you’re like
Depends heavily on context and subject to standards of appropriateness
Allows clear and effective expression in wide range of situations with wide range of people
Allows interpretation of others’ messages
Adds interest and personality

11. Characteristics of Speech Sounds
Diction
Determined by choices in pronunciation, articulation and enunciation
Pronunciation
Listed in dictionary
Use first listing
Mark of a knowledgeable and literate person

12. Characteristics of Speech Sounds
Articulation
Consonant sounds
Omission errors – leave out sounds
Addition “ - add sounds
Substitution “ - use one sound for another
Slurring “ - consonant sounds run together
Jeet? Novyu? Nopedyuwanna?
Surefyurgonna.

13. Characteristics of Speech Sounds
Enunciation
Vowel sounds
Faulty placement of teeth or tongue can distort sounds
Usually subconscious

14. Characteristics of Speech Sounds
Dialect
Can refer to a language that only exists is oral form
EX: Navajo code talkers
Regional dialects
EX: southern drawl
Ethnic and cultural dialects
Acceptable only within region or culture

15. Speaking Clearly and Effectively
Make appropriate choices with knowledge and understanding of choices
Draw from large flexible vocabulary
Add conventions and rules appropriately
Practice clear diction
Eliminate distracting elements

16. Putting Language into Perspective
Personal implications
Conveys attitude
Determines success
Effective strategies
Increase knowledge base
Build vocabulary – practice in safe environment
Use clear statements and clear questions
Use clear diction
Use effective language to build positive relationships

17. Cultural Implications of Oral Language
Historical research
Early 1800s
Jakob and Wilhelm Grimm
Traveled throughout Germany
Stories’ minor details changed but major points the same
Became fascinated with differences in language
Wrote phonetic descriptions of speech patterns and language choices

18. Cultural Implications of Oral Language
Grimm’s Law
No one speech pattern is superior to another
Oral language in each area best serves the needs of people within that culture.
No grammatical errors with in oral culture
Agreed upon language is only good within the culture
Crossing culture lines may make choice inappropriate

19. “Developing Skills for Power Language”
Section 2
“Developing Skills for Power Language”

20. Understanding and Using Power Language
Characteristics of power language
Clarity
How
Precise speech, clearly organaized and grammatical, easy to understand
Effects
May develop image as knowledgeable, efficient communicator. Understanding enhanced by ability to speak effectively.

21. Understanding and Using Power Language
Characteristics of power language
Courtesy and tact
How
Listens empathically, negotiates respectfully, disagrees agreeably, focuses on issues not people
Effect
Respect and consideration promote positive relationships,

22. Understanding and Using Power Language
Characteristics of power language
Ownership of thoughts and feelings
How
Uses “I” to express opinions, ideas, and feelings
“I was bored” not “That was boring”
Effect
Seen as self-confident, responsible, and non-judgmental
Viewed as someone who gets things done, not a “blamer”

23. Understanding and Using Power Language
Characteristics of power language
Inclusion of others
How
Speaks with direct reference to others
Listens empathically
Effect
Establishes common ground
Paves way for cooperation and understanding
Seen as open-minded and interested

24. Understanding and Using Power Language
Characteristics of power language
Vividness and imagery
How
Express ordinary ideas in imaginative way
Helps people visualize complex ideas
Effect
Speech is interesting and memorable
People look forward to hearing what you have to say

25. Understanding and Using Power Language
Characteristics of power language
Appropriate usage
How
Uses level of language appropriate for context
Effect
Viewed as reasonable, thoughtful, with strong command of language
Trusted to communicate appropriately

26. Understanding Levels of Usage
Formal
Strict standards dictate its use
Used in situations requiring rigid protocol and form
EX: court, parliamentary procedure, ceremonies

27. Understanding Levels of Usage
Technical (Jargon)
Can be misunderstood by outsiders
May need to be explained to listeners
Changes rapidly with new needs
Knowledge is vital in specialized activities or workplace
EX: computer, math, sports

28. Understanding Levels of Usage
Standard (Power Language)
Often called “correct” speech
Precise vocabulary
Accurate structure
Adheres to rules
Clear diction
Used most in professional and social

29. Understanding Levels of Usage
Informal
Used in casual settings
Colloquialisms
Regional idioms
Can add local flavor
Don’t translate well outside of culture
Overuse can give perception of being uneducated

30. Understanding Levels of Usage
Informal
Used in casual settings
Slang
Temporary language
Used by limited number of people
Excludes outsiders
Can cripple expression
Can creep into inappropriate areas

31. Understanding Levels of Usage
Ungrammatical
Can detract from message
Can tarnish credibility

32. Choosing Your Speaking Style
Just as you are known for wearing a particular style of clothing, you probably are known for your style of speech, but language tells more about you than clothes.
The level you choose defines your overall image.

33. Functions of Oral Language
EXPRESSING and responding to feeling
Non-expression can be cultural or from lack of confidence
Learning to rationally state feelings can be empowering
Knowing how to calmly express feelings can reverse a frustrating situation
No fault found for calmly and honestly stating feelings

34. Functions of Oral Language
Expressing and RESPONDING to feeling
Certain amount of power lies in listening and responding to feelings of others
Helps gain trust and respect
EX: I’m sorry you were disappointed.
EX: You shouldn’t be disappointed.

35. Functions of Oral Language
Giving and seeking information
Need to ask and answer clearly and effectively
Phrase questions and answers to the focus directly on information needed or given

36. Functions of Oral Language
Controlling and persuading
Enormous power lies in being able to influence others
Much effectiveness in requests and demands depends on language used
Difficult to get results and preserve relationship
Requires clarity, directness, self-confidence, courtesy, tact, and integrity

37. Functions of Oral Language
Participating in social rituals
Follow a pattern and call for using social etiquette
Basis of interpersonal comm. at work
First stepping stone to developing relationships
Use courtesy, tact, civility and good manners

38. Functions of Oral Language
Creating and imagining
Vital to success in almost every area
Find new solutions
Generate ideas
Useless if you can’t express ideas

39. Language to avoid Sexist
Implies something is more suited to one gender
Perpetuates stereotypes
Alternative
Use gender neutral terms

40. Language to avoid Racist Applies labels or behaviors to entire race
Language of stereotypes and prejudice
Often offensive
Alternative
Use names and descriptions void of race

41. Language to avoid Profanity Vulgar, irreverent, abusive
Considered defensive
Damages credibility
Alternative
Express and assume ownership of feelings
Expand vocabulary to choose accurate words

42. Language to avoid Judgmental Implies critique of someone or something
Uses “good” and “bad”
“Why” can be seen as defensive or judgmental
Alternative
Your opening didn’t hold my attention/That was a bad introduction
Ask questions that begin with other 5Ws and H

43. Language to avoid Accusatory
“You” messages can sound bossy or accusatory
Listener feels accused or attacked
Alternative
Begin with “I”
You need to clean your room/ I’m not happy with the way your room looks

44. Language to avoid Assumptive
Implies that everyone shares your views or concerns
Can trigger “No I don’t” reaction that puts listener on the defense
Alternative
Use “may be”, “can be” or “appears to be”

45. Language to avoid Absolute Assumes NO exceptions
Risky because few things never change and there are usually exceptions to rules
Can cause you to be seen as a liar
Alternative
Avoid “always”, “never”
Use less rigid terms “often”, “seldom”

46. Powerless language Fillers
Adds no value but detracts from message and speaker’s image
Alternative
Uses pauses

47. Powerless language Fillers
“Well, I, uh, want to , you know, graduate with, uh, honors, you know, because I, like want to, uh, maybe even, like to to, uh college, or something”
“I really want to graduate with honors because I want to get a good job or go to college.”

48. Powerless language Tags
Make speakers appear less confident and knowledgeable
Seem to be seeking approval or permission
Alternative
“It’s time to go, don’t you think?”/It’s time to go.”/Don’t you think it’s time to go?”

49. Powerless language Vague wording
Rely on “they”, “it”, “thing” or “but”
Makes communication impersonal, abstract and without detail
“but” is a message wipe-out
Makes speaker appear indecisive or confused
Alternative
Be specific – “They want you to sign it.”/The office manager wants you to sign the time sheet.”

50. Giving Criticism Use descriptive C not judgmental
Evaluate how YOU feel
Request change
State consequences

51. Receiving Criticism Ask for description of facts Paraphrase criticism
Agree with assessment when possible
Listen for desired change
Stay focused on rewards

52. Copyright Laws Fair Use Doctrine Non-commercial, educational
More factual, less creative
More taken = less fair use
Effect on potential market

53. What this means?
The words and expressions you use can be your best ally or your worst enemy. Power language can help you get the results you want.