Pragmatics, Grammar and Meaning in SLA

The Element explores the role of pragmatics in second language acquisition, comparing the generative paradigm's focus on linguistic aspects with Relevance Theory's broader perspective on communication. It reviews theoretical standpoints on how linguistic phenomena combine semantic, pragmatic, and syntactic information, illustrating how these perspectives are integrated in analyzing data in different linguistic scenarios. It suggests that the notion of procedural meaning sheds light on the interpretive effects of grammatical features and how they vary across languages, contributing to a complete understanding of the factors that affect second language development.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 86 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element delves into the intricate interplay between pragmatics, meaning, and grammar in the realm of second language acquisition. It explores the generative paradigm, which primarily focuses on linguistic aspects, contrasting it with the broader perspective provided by Relevance Theory. The Element scrutinizes various theoretical frameworks that shed light on the acquisition and development of linguistic phenomena that necessitate the integration of semantic, pragmatic, and syntactic information in second languages. Through comprehensive reviews, it illustrates how these perspectives converge to analyze data across diverse linguistic scenarios. It demonstrates that the concept of procedural meaning unveils the diverse interpretive consequences of grammatical features across languages, offering insights into how these factors shape second language development. By highlighting the interplay between procedural meaning, grammatical features, and language development, this Element provides valuable insights into the complex processes involved in acquiring and refining a second language.

Introduction:
Pragmatics, as a branch of linguistics, plays a crucial role in second language acquisition (SLA). It encompasses the study of language in context, considering the social, cultural, and communicative aspects that shape its usage. In this Element, we will explore the relationship between pragmatics, meaning, and grammar in SLA, with a particular focus on the generative paradigm and Relevance Theory.
The Generative Paradigm:
The generative paradigm, rooted in Noam Chomsky's transformational grammar, is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the purely linguistic aspects of language. It posits that language is a system of rules that generate infinite sentences based on a set of grammatical rules. The generative paradigm focuses on the structure of language, disregarding the role of context or pragmatic factors in language production and comprehension.
Relevance Theory:
Relevance Theory, on the other hand, is a cognitive framework that emphasizes the role of context in language processing. It suggests that meaning is constructed through the interaction between the speaker, the listener, and the communicative situation. Relevance Theory recognizes that language is not just a set of rules but a tool for communication that is shaped by the context in which it is used.
The Relationship between Pragmatics and Meaning:
While the generative paradigm focuses on the linguistic aspects of language, Relevance Theory emphasizes the role of context in meaning construction. Pragmatics, therefore, plays a vital role in bridging the gap between the linguistic and cognitive aspects of language. Pragmatic markers, such as tone, register, and politeness, help convey meaning and establish the intended interpretation of a message.
Acquisition of Pragmatic Competence:
Acquiring pragmatic competence in a second language involves developing a sensitivity to the contextual factors that influence language usage. Learners need to learn how to interpret and respond to different types of communication, including face-to-face interactions, written texts, and multimedia materials. This requires a deep understanding of the cultural norms and conventions associated with the target language.
The Role of Grammar:
Grammar plays a crucial role in the acquisition of pragmatic competence. It provides the framework for constructing sentences and expressing ideas. Grammar rules govern the structure of language, and they also provide clues about the intended meaning of a sentence. By learning grammar rules, learners can infer the pragmatic implications of different sentence structures and develop their ability to communicate effectively.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, pragmatics, meaning, and grammar are interconnected in the acquisition of a second language. The generative paradigm focuses on the linguistic aspects of language, while Relevance Theory emphasizes the role of context in meaning construction. Pragmatic competence is acquired through exposure to different linguistic scenarios and developing a sensitivity to contextual factors. Grammar plays a vital role in providing the framework for constructing sentences and expressing ideas, and it also provides clues about the intended meaning of a sentence. By integrating these three aspects, learners can develop their pragmatic competence and become more proficient in communicating in a second language.

ISBN-13: 9781009011822