Week 6

SPEECH ACTS
 refers to what we say (words, sentences) that has a function in our communication
 we use speech acts in our everyday lives
 can be in various forms, eg.
- one word, “Congratulations!” (to congratulate)
- a sentence, “Boys, remember to bring your textbook tomorrow.” (to remind)
 speech acts differ according to the situation/context in which we use it

Examples of Speech Acts

 Informing: “Mum, Aunt Bella called you this morning.”
 Persuading: “This handphone is the newest model and has many features. It’s
now selling at RM210 only and the offer ends tomorrow. Get one unit
as it’s really money’s worth. You definitely won’t have any regrets.”
 Complimenting: “Hi Amber, You look awesome in that dress.”
 Requesting: “Could you please borrow me your pen?”
 Inviting: “We are going to the movies this evening. Would you like to join us?”

TUTORIAL

In groups of four each, identify a situation/context of your choice and prepare a role play
of about 10 minutes. Your role play must consist of speech acts (unlimited number)
relevant to the identified situation/context. When you perform the role play in class later,
the rest of the students / audience will identify the speech acts used in your role play.
An example is shown below:

Example:
Situation/Context: At a birthday party
Ali: Hi, Abu, Happy Birthday. (Greetings)
Abu: Thank you and I’m so glad you could make it here. (Thanking) Do take a seat
and help yourselves to the food.
Ali: Thanks, birthday boy. Oh, meet my girlfriend, Maria. (Introducing) [shake hands]
Abu: Nice meeting you, Maria. Welcome to my party. (Welcoming)
Maria: Nice meeting you, too. Happy Birthday, Abu. I heard a lot about you
(Informing) ....