Register
Akin to knowledge of frequency is knowledge of register, ie knowing the use of the word according to variations of function and situation. For example, 'Would you like a cigarette?' is a neutral formula, appropriate in most situations. 'Want a fag?', whilst acceptable between friends, might be perceived as rude if made to a stranger. One implication for teaching may be to introduce neutral terms at elementary level, insofar as this is possible. A useful exercise for higher levels is to have students form pairs of informal and formal expressions of equivalent meaning, but how much colloquial or vulgar language is appropriate? Learners will encounter such language, but should they be taught it?
Activity 11
| What is your own position on the teaching of colloquial and vulgar language, including swear words? Do you take the view that learners should be taught such vocabulary receptively so that they can understand the implications of what is being said to them? Do you actively teach it? Or do you ignore it? |
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