Purposive Communication

GE 5

Macaraeg, Alyssa Therese D.

Instructor I

LESSON 1
Language

Learning Outcomes:
At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
1. demonstrate an understanding of the key ideas in language and communication; and
2. relate your personal experience with the input presented.

What is Language?
Together with the creation of human life is the creation of a wonderful and dynamic human
capacity— language. Animals are said to be able to communicate with each other. Whales sing,
wolves howl, dogs bark, and birds chirp. The sounds these creatures produce often reflect the state
of their emotions. While it may be true that animals communicate, only human beings are truly
capable of producing language.
What exactly is language? Linguists agree that a language can only be called a language fi
it has a system of rules (also known as grammar), a sound system (phonology), and a vocabulary
(lexicon). These are the requirements for identifying a means of communication as a language. A
monkey may be able to signal to its partner that it is sharing food. The monkey will produce sounds
and gestures, but will not be able to organize the sounds into a meaningful system with rules. What
the monkey is producing is not a language ni the strictest sense of the word. Human beings, on the
other hand, are able to communicate their desire to share food through several ways that are
understandable to other human beings. They may utter a word (Food!), raise a question (Want
some food?), or give a statement (I'd like to share this food with you).
When people use language, they can understand each other because they belong to the same
speech community. They can understand each other because in their speech community, people
share the same set of rules in the language system. While growing up, people acquire the languages
used by those in the community. This is the process of language acquisition. The languages
acquired while growing up are known as mother tongues, which may also be referred to as first
languages. People discover later on that other languages are needed for various reasons. These
other languages may be referred to as second languages. People learn these languages by studying
formally in school or informally on their own. This is the process of language learning.
What happens if people visit another speech community that is different from their own?
Americans and British speak English. However, they spell English words differently. They
pronounce words differently. They have different ways of expressing the same concepts. It can be
said that the Americans and the British belong to two speech communities which do not have
exactly the same set of rules for their languages. This is why there are differences in their
languages. The opening activity on the previous page illustrates this reality.
What happens if you, for example, who speaks a mother tongue and English, go to work in
China where the residents speak Putonghua (Mandarin) and a little bit of English? Will you be
able to communicate with the Chinese? The answer is yes. Though it will be a challenge for you
and your Chinese friends to try to understand each other, eventually you will be able to
communicate as you slowly learn each other's languages. What is happening here is called
language contact. The result of such contact may be a new form of language. It is possible that in
your attempt to communicate with each other, you and your Chinese friend will produce a new
language form that is understandable to both of you. Your own languages may also change as you
constantly interact and communicate with each other. Thus, language change is the result of
language contact.
 Language is indeed a complex human capacity. It is, therefore, important to be aware of its
features and behavior to be able to use language more effectively and productively in
communicating with others.

Task 1: Language and Communication

Directions: Read the following statements carefully. Decide fi each statement is true or false.
Write T the blank if the statement is true, and F if it is false. If the statement is false, re-write or
revise it to make it true. Use the space provided after each statement. (Point system: 5 items x 3
points each = 15 points)
1. Not all languages have a grammar system.
2. Change happens to all languages.
3. The first language that a child acquires is called mother tongue.
4. Al living creatures have the capacity for language.
5. Two persons who do not speak the same language will never be able to communicate
with each other.

Summary:
1. Language is a human capacity that consists of (a) a system of rules (also known as
grammar), (b) a sound system (phonology), and (c) a vocabulary (lexicon).
2. While growing up in a community, people acquire the languages used by those in the
community. This is the process of language acquisition.
3. The languages acquired while growing up are known as mother tongues, which may also
be referred to as first languages.
4. Other than the first languages, there are other languages that are needed for various reasons.
These other languages are referred to as second languages.
5. People learn their second languages in school or on their own. This is the process of
language learning.
6. In our interaction with other people, our languages come into contact with their languages,
resulting in language change. Language change is a natural behavior of all languages.
 LESSON 2
Communication

At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

3. demonstrate knowledge about the role of language in human communication;
4. identify the types of communication in relation to communication mode, context, and
purpose and style;
5. differentiate verbal, non-verbal, and visual communication and their sub-forms in relation
to communication modes;
6. evaluate the differences among intrapersonal, interpersonal, extended, organizational, and
intercultural communication in relation to communication context;
7. explain the differences between formal and informal communication in relation to purpose
and style; and
8. discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the different communication types in various
communication settings.
Communication
Depending on what is being considered, communication as a term takes on different
contexts resulting in people having different views on communication types. Since communication
is generally defined as the exchange of thoughts, ideas, concepts, and views between or among
two or more people, various contexts come into play. Context is the circumstance or environment
in which communication takes place. Such circumstance may include the physical or actual setting,
the value positions of a speaker/listener, and the relevance or appropriateness of a message
conveyed. It focuses on certain communication processes and even groupings of people that
constitute a communication situation.
Different contexts can impact one's communication. Each communication type is governed
by a particular circumstance. Thus, it is essential to pay attention to the interplay of factors
surrounding the context of communication which may be physical, cultural, social, and
psychological in nature. Communication may then be classified according to: (1) communication
mode, (2) context, and (3) purpose and style.
1. Types of Communication according to its Mode
A message may be conveyed via these types: verbal - non-verbal and visual. Though
communication is often thought of as verbal, the non-verbal mode is equally essential as it
enhances one's message.
 Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication
Effective communication calls for the blending of these two types. One cannot be separated
from the other. For instance, door- to-door salespersons who demonstrate product knowledge can
only be effective if they know how to properly punctuate what they say with proper gestures and
facial expressions. Their communication with the customer begins upon greeting him/her with a
welcoming smile then assessing customer needs and answering customer queries enhanced by
gestures and a friendly, happy, and pleasant disposition. It is only through this mode that
salespeople with excellent communication skills are able to provide the best information needed,
thereby convincing the client to patronize their products.
When you were in Senior High School, you were trained to blend verbal and non-verbal
modes of communication. In fact, when meeting people for the first time, as what you may have
experienced many times, the initial meeting when you speak during the first few minutes in
significant as it leaves a lasting impression on your listeners. You show interest in meeting these
people by acknowledging their presence through an amiable, congenial disposition, and a smiling
face. Rather than just speaking, it is to use the non-verbal code through a handshake, an approving
facial expression, and a kind disposition or character.
 Visual Communication
 Visual communication, on the other hand, is the type of communication that uses visuals
to convey information and/or messages. Some examples are signs, symbols, imagery, maps,
graphs, charts, diagrams, pictograms, photos, drawings or illustrations, and even various forms of
electronic communication. Some examples of electronic communication symbols or images are
the emojis, emoticons, and animation among others to convey the writer's emotions or clarify the
intent of the message sender. These are achieved through digital mode or text. How these symbols
are interpreted is very crucial in visual communication. There are some instances when visual
communication is classified under non-verbal communication. Whatever the classification is, note
that this type has now become pervasive in communication. It is then important that the receiver
of the message is able to decode the meaning correctly by contextualizing the information received.
Visual communication now occupies an important place in any work environment. For
instance, during presentations, instructors, managers, doctors, lawyers, legislators, and the like use
visuals to transfer data into digestible information. Very likely, they will have greater success in
catching the attention of the audience, making the latter easily recall the information. What makes
visual communication even more advantageous is that it makes use of technology that provides
apps (applications), videos, and images that rely less on the printed word making presentations
more interesting. This leaves a powerful effect on the audience and prospective clients.
Speakers/presenters should, however, be mindful of the content of their presentation since wrong
and irrelevant information may lead to miscommunication or communication breakdown, thereby
defeating the very purpose for the use of visuals. Likewise, they should pay attention to graphic
elements, such as position, color, size, shape, and orientation as all these play an important role in
the preparation of slides. Audience size should be considered as well when preparing slide
presentations or other forms of visuals.
2. Types of Communication according to Context
In this sub-section, context in communication is referred to as a composite of people interacting
with each other. Communication may also be classified according to context: (1) intrapersonal; (2)
interpersonal; (3) extended; (4) organizational communication; and (5) intercultural
communication.
 Intrapersonal Communication
The Latin prefix intra- means within or inside. Intrapersonal communication then means
talking to oneself. Some label it as self or inner talk, inner monologue, or inner dialogue.
Psychologists call it with other names such as self-verbalization or self-statement. Do you find it
normal to talk to yourself? Some say it is, some say it's not. The gauge, however, rests on the
frequency of the occurrence and how you handle such. For instance, if you find yourself talking to
yourself, there is really no need for you to answer back. You talk to yourself because you think
that there is the need to: boost your confidence when you are nervous to speak in front of an
audience, apprise yourself that you performed a good job, or console yourself that you did a task
poorly. Moreover, engaging in inner speech such as fantasizing or daydreaming is not bad as long
as you are able to distinguish it from reality. Self-talk can be advantageous as it can enable you to
practice what you ought to say in times when you lack the motivation and confidence to speak.
One magic statement that you can try is: "I can do it!" Saying this over and over again will give
you positive reinforcement that you can do things courageously and that it is not impossible to do
so. Furthermore, as you respond to life's challenges, you may also find yourself verbalizing your
thoughts and feelings. It is then important that as you introspect, you are able to improve on your
decisions in life and likewise enhance your self-worth as a person.
 Interpersonal Communication
As opposed to intra, the Latin prefix inter- means between, among, and together. An interactive
exchange takes place as interpersonal communication takes place. However, as it occurs, a
transaction does not necessarily take place since it can only be a simple interaction such as
greetings, getting to know a person, or ordinary conversations that happen between or among the
interactants. This may occur in dyads or small groups, also known as group communication. A
communication situation is interpersonal if it is meant to establish or deepen one's relationship
with others. However, if the objective is to achieve something at the end of the conversation, it
becomes transactional. While the former is characterized by less seriousness and formality, the
latter is more formal and profound. Whereas interpersonal talks are meant for maintaining social
relationships, transactional talks aim to accomplish or resolve something at the end of the
conversation.
 Extended Communication
Extended communication involves the use of electronic media. Unlike before when it only
called for the use of television and radio, nowadays, the description of extended communication
may be expanded as to include tele, audio, or phone conferencing; video-conferencing; Skype
calls; and other technological means. For example, linked by a telecommunication system, people
who are far apart, or are far from the venue, can participate in a meeting or a conference. In an e-
conference like this, participants may not be physically present but are still able to track down the
lectures and participate actively because of the mass articulation and dissemination of information,
allowing speakers to reach a wider group of listeners. Since extended communication is public in
nature, speakers are expected to be prepared when they speak, making their language more formal.
With the use of electronic media, messages are transmitted quickly. For instance, with the use of
the Internet, recorded videos may be transmitted in seconds/minutes and may be viewed by a
greater number of people. With extended communication, your own thinking, behavior, and
attitude may be influenced by other people and you may be persuaded to take the views you hear.
It is important then that you weigh what you hear and assess them against those beliefs that you
hold onto so you do not get easily swayed by other people's convictions.
 Organizational Communication
With this type, the focus is on the role that communication plays in organizational contexts.
Organizations comprise individuals who work for the company. When you graduate, for example,
you become a professional, either working for a company or putting up your own. Whichever, you
should know that each organization has expectations that you as a communication professional
should meet or that you as the owner may establish.
For an organization to be successful, a system of communication should be put in place. A set of
rules or standards for communication protocol should be made clear so that interaction patterns
are established. On the part of the individual, you should be equipped with the needed oral and
written communication skills that the organization expects you to possess.
There are two types of organizational structure: (1) formal and (2) informal. Formal structure
allows communication to take place via designated channels of message flow between positions
in the organization. This may make use of four approaches: (1) downward communication, (2)
upward communication, (3) horizontal communication, and (4) crosswise communication. As the
term implies, downward communication is the type that flows from upper to lower positions,
i.e., president to a manager or supervisor, a manager to an ordinary staff. The flow of
communication is top-down or from a superior to a subordinate, usually asking certain individuals
to perform a certain task. Conversely, message transmission in upward communication is
bottom-up in which subordinates send communication to their superiors/bosses bearing their
views/feedback on organizational policies, issues related to their jobs, and the like. Horizontal
communication is lateral in approach as it takes place among people belonging to the same level
but coming from different departments or units to facilitate performance of tasks through proper
coordination. Crosswise approach is diagonal in nature as employees from different units or
departments working at various levels communicate with each other. Each of these communication
approaches has its own advantages and disadvantages. Note that these structures are usually
presented in the company's organizational chart and policy manuals.
Informal communication, on the other hand, comes from unofficial channels of message flow.
Also known as 'grapevine,' messages coming from the different levels of the organization are
transmitted. This occurs due to the dissatisfaction of some employees accompanied by uncertainty,
such as superiors playing favorites and unfavorable or unacceptable company rules and
regulations. Some employees even resort to baseless gossips and rumors which they spread like
wild fire. Tracing the origin of a rumor is almost next to impossible. In fact, when some people are
confronted, they impute the blame to others so they can get out of the mess quickly.
Each organization has its own culture. This is referred to as 'organizational culture? Based on its
history and development, an organization develops its own core values, vision and mission
statements, goals, and objectives. Organizational culture is of utmost significance since it will
dictate the kind of behavior that employees should possess as well as the extent of commitment
expected from them by the organization. They all share in the values, practices, vision, and mission
of the organization. Peter Drucker's famous quote, "Company cultures are like country cultures.
Never try to change one. Try instead, to work, with what you've got," underscores the view that
indeed, culture is within the control of the entrepreneur or company owner. If at the outset, you
think you cannot adapt to the organization's culture, better look for another job or workplace where
you will be happy and in harmony with your superiors and colleagues.
 Intercultural Communication
Another type of communication is intercultural communication. As the term implies, ti is
communication between or among people having different linguistic, religious, ethnic, social, and
professional backgrounds. Even gender difference affects communication. Individuals having
different orientations communicate and interpret messages differently. This particularly happens
with non-verbal communication. For instance, Australians consider eye contact as important in
assessing the sincerity of a person while for Indians, looking straight into the eyes of a person
while talking is inappropriate. This does not, however, mean that they are dishonest or insincere.
Moreover, Indians interpret waving of hands from side to side as no or go away while it means
hello among Westerners. For Filipinos, twitching of lips means to refer to something or someone.
When someone asks: "Where is my book?" instead of responding: "There it is," the response may
be twitching or puckering lips. When seen by people from other cultures, such facial expression
may be taken to mean as "seduction." It is important then not to be judgmental or to rush into
interpretations as cultures sometimes vary enormously.
Similarly, linguistic differences are of the essence. With the advent of World Englishes,
different cultures develop different lexicon peculiar only to the speech community. In the
Philippines, a local variety of English called Philippine English has been developed which has
introduced lexical innovation, not found or used in other varieties, such as thrice, batchmates, CR
(comfort room), solons, barangay captain, and high blood. Even in terms of pronunciation, words
are pronounced differently by Filipinos, which, to some, are considered erroneous. For instance,
these supposedly pronounced with a hard /th/ represented with a / ð/ is pronounced instead with a
/d/ by the average Filipino since hard /th/ is not part of the Filipino phonology.
3. Types of Communication according to Purpose and Style
Finally, communication may be classified according to purpose and style. Earlier, formal and
informal communication have been discussed in relation to organization communication.
Similarly, the types of communication in relation to purpose and style are formal and informal.
However, rather than focusing on the transmission of message and message flow, the focus here
is on the communication setting and the mode of delivery. Formal communication employs formal
language delivered orally or in written form. Lectures, public talks/speeches, research and project
proposals, reports, and business letters, among others are all considered formal situations and
writings. Note that while lectures and speeches are delivered orally, the texts have been thought
out carefully and written well before they are delivered. To inform, to entertain, and to persuade
are the main objectives of this type of communication.
On the other hand, informal communication certainly does not employ formal language. It
involves personal and ordinary conversations with friends, family members, or acquaintances
about anything under the sun. The mode may be oral as in face-to-face, ordinary or everyday talks
and phone calls, or written as in the case of e-mail messages, personal notes, letters, or text
messages. The purpose is simply to socialize and enhance relationships.
Task 2: Let’s Discuss!
Directions: Below is a list of questions, in which you will choose 3 to answer. Copy and answer
the questions you chose from the list. (5 points each.)

1. How do you differentiate the types of communication in relation to communication mode?

2. How can visual communication enhance the message conveyed by a speaker? Cite a
particular situation when it is best to employ visual communication.
3. What are the types of communication in relation to context? How do they differ from one
another?
4. How can you listen to speakers' opinions through electronic media without being easily
swayed into accepting their opinions?
5. Of the four approaches employed in formal organization structure, which do you think is
the best? Cite situations which will call for the use of each approach. Give one advantage
and disadvantage of each.
6. Would you know any strategy or method by which you can reduce the complexity of
understanding another culture? Do you think it will work with your current set of foreign
classmates/friends?
7. How do you differentiate formal communication from informal communication in relation
to purpose and style? Provide situations to illustrate the differences.

Summary
1. There are various types of communication. These types can be divided according to mode,
context, and purpose and style. In terms of communication mode, the types of
communication are verbal, non-verbal, and visual. In terms of context, the communication
types are intrapersonal, interpersonal, extended, organizational, and intercultural. In terms
of purpose and style, the types of communication are formal and informal.
2. Verbal and non-verbal codes should complement each other. With visual communication,
interpretation of signs and symbols is crucial since people have different ways of
interpreting them. It is important to always contextualize the symbol/sign received in order
to arrive at the correct interpretation.
3. In any organization, a system of communication should be put in place. Transmission of
message and message flow also play an important role in effective organizational
communication.
4. People have different linguistic, religious, ethnic, social, and professional backgrounds. It
is then necessary to pay attention to intercultural communication to avoid
miscommunication and/or communication breakdown.
5. Formal communication and informal communication have different uses depending on the
situation. Both types may be in oral or written mode.