BTLPT Pragmatics and Language Functions Flashcards

What does 'pragmatics' study in linguistics as it applies to the BTLPT?

Answer: How context influences meaning and language use in communication

Pragmatics studies how context, speaker intent, and social norms shape meaning beyond literal word meanings.

Which language function is being performed when a bilingual teacher says, 'Please open your textbooks to page 45'?

Answer: Directing or commanding

Giving instructions or commands is a directive language function — the speaker intends to get the listener to perform an action.

In a BTLPT oral task, a candidate is asked to explain a science concept to a young student. Which pragmatic adaptation is most appropriate?

Answer: Simplifying vocabulary, using analogies, and checking for understanding

Effective pedagogical communication requires adapting language complexity to the audience — younger learners need simpler vocabulary and supportive strategies.

What is a 'speech act' in pragmatics relevant to bilingual teacher assessment?

Answer: An utterance that performs a communicative function such as promising, requesting, or apologizing

Speech acts are utterances with communicative functions — promising, apologizing, requesting — that go beyond propositional content.

When a bilingual teacher says, 'Can you close the door?' to a student, what speech act is being performed despite its grammatical form as a question?

Answer: A directive request to close the door

Indirect speech acts use a grammatical form different from their communicative function — 'Can you?' is grammatically a question but pragmatically a polite request.

Which concept explains why 'gracias' in Spanish is sometimes insufficient as a response in certain cultural contexts, requiring a more elaborate acknowledgment?

Answer: Pragmatic norms and politeness conventions that vary by culture

Pragmatic norms for politeness, gratitude, and formality vary across cultures — what counts as adequate thanks differs between communities.