Words Words Words!
When communicating with others both formally (giving a speech) and informally (catching up with your best friend) it is important to be aware of who is receiving your message. Communicators who fail to understand who their listeners are run the risk of failing to reach the goals they have intended for the communication event. Therefore, it is important to provide the proper context, tone, and language suitable to person/s you are addressing.
Several things about language from Chapter 3.2 are important to keep in mind for this assignment.
- Slang
In chapter 3.2, “slang refers to new or adapted words that are specific to a group, context, and/or time period; regarded as less formal; and representative of people’s creative play with language.” (Communication in the Real World) You only want to use slang if the intended receiver is familiar with it. For example, don’t use slang in a speech given to the mayor or in a conversation with someone who does not share your native language. However, slang may or may not be appropriate in a speech intended for an audience of college students or in a conversation with your best friend.
- Accountability and Facts and Inferences
Use sources and information that your receivers will find believable and credible. Clearly state facts as facts, and inferences as inferences. “Inferences are conclusions based on thoughts or speculation, but not direct observation. Facts are conclusions based on direct observation or group consensus.” (3.3, Communication in the Real World)
- The Ladder of Abstraction and Descriptive Words
In chapter 3.2, “the Ladder of Abstraction is defined as a model that is used to illustrate how language can range from concrete to abstract”. (Communication in the Real World). The lower you are on the ladder the more descriptive your words are. Descriptive words bring an unclear concept alive and gives it substance. It leaves an impression. It clarifies in imagery what words might never truly express. This type of language requires a little bit of forethought but is well worth the time and effort. This is the secret to making your message come alive with meaning. Descriptive language appeals to the senses; smell, touch, sight, and sound.
Directions:
- Read Chapter 3.2
- Download the Words Words Words! Worksheet and complete the three exercises.
- Submit the Words Words Words! Worksheet here for a grade.
-
WordsWordsWordsWorksheet-2-1.docx
Since I can’t directly access the attachment, I’ll guide you through completing the exercises based on the instructions provided.
**Exercise #1: Slang**
1. **List and Define Slang Words:**
– “Hooked up”: Engaged romantically or intimately.
– “Break bread”: To share a meal or provide for someone.
– “Sugar daddy”: A wealthy, older man who provides financial support to a younger partner.
– “Dime”: A very attractive person.
– “Tight”: Cool or impressive.
– “Rubber”: Condom.
– “Trojan Man”: Reference to Trojan condoms.
2. **Rewrite Using Understandable Language:**
Monte and Chris are discussing Monte’s date:
– Monte: We went out together. I took her to the movies and treated her to dinner.
– Chris: You paying for everything now? She must be really special.
– Monte: She was great. I had to treat her well. After the movie, I drove her home and we were intimate. You know what I mean?
– Chris: You don’t know her well. I hope you used protection.
– Monte and Chris together: “Trojan Man.”
**Exercise #2: Accountability and Facts vs. Inferences**
1. **List 10 Facts from “Connecting Up the Dots” by Anna Quindlen:**
– Mississippi has only one abortion clinic.
– There were previously seven abortion clinics in Mississippi.
– Mississippi’s abortion laws are among the most restrictive in the U.S.
– Mandatory counseling and waiting periods are required before abortions.
– There’s a correlation between waiting periods and increased second-trimester abortions.
– Mississippi has high infant mortality and low health insurance coverage for women.
– The state has stringent laws on abortion consent for minors.
– There’s a disparity in income between Mississippi and the national average.
– Claims linking abortion to breast cancer have been debunked by medical research.
– Mississippi has high rates of teen pregnancy and child abuse.
2. **Your Opinion:**
– State your personal viewpoint or reaction to the facts presented, such as your thoughts on reproductive rights or healthcare disparities.
3. **Author’s Opinion:**
– Identify the author’s perspective based on the tone and implications in the article, focusing on whether it’s factual reporting or advocacy journalism.
**Exercise #3: Descriptive Language**
**Example Paragraph:**
“A day at the beach is a sensory feast. The salty tang of the ocean breeze tickles the senses, carrying hints of seaweed and sunscreen. Waves crash rhythmically against the shore, creating a soothing symphony of nature’s music. Seagulls call out overhead, their cries blending with children’s laughter echoing across the sand. The sun paints the sky in hues of orange and pink as it dips toward the horizon, casting a golden glow over everything it touches. The taste of salt lingers on lips kissed by the sea breeze, while warm sand cushions bare feet, grounding me in the tranquility of this seaside paradise.”
Feel free to expand or modify this example based on your personal experiences or imagination.
If you have any specific questions or need further assistance with these exercises, feel free to ask!
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