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Title ANALYZING SPEECH ACTS IN ENGLISH CLASSROOMS AT INTERMEDIATE LEVEL IN PAKISTAN: A PRAGMATIC STUDY

Author(s) Amna Khalil

Abstract ABSTRACT Title: Analyzing Speech Acts in English Classrooms at Intermediate level in Pakistan: A Pragmatic Study The current study investigates the complex dynamics of speech acts within intermediate-level English classrooms in Pakistan, aiming to understand the underlying factors shaping classroom communication. Through comprehensive observation, the research interprets various engagement strategies, diverse speech acts, and the influences guiding educators’ choices. The study highlights the reciprocal nature of classroom interactions, emphasizing the interplay between speech acts, classroom dynamics, and cultural considerations. The research paradigm used for the present study is qualitative while the research designs for the current study are observation and survey research. A purposive sampling technique was used for this study, with data collected through observations of teacher-student interactions in the classroom. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen faculty members to triangulate findings from classroom observations. The collected data were then analyzed descriptively using Searle’s speech act theory. The analysis of the data reveals that educators employ a range of speech acts, from positive affirmations to clear directives, contributing to a supportive learning environment. Moreover, intermediate-level students not only decode various speech acts but also communicate by incorporating a variety of speech acts into their communication with their peers and teachers. However, certain speech acts are used more frequently than others by both teachers and students. The results indicate that both teachers and students demonstrate satisfactory competence in their classroom interactions. Nonetheless, their performance in employing speech acts could be enhanced through training and additional reinforcement. The data collected through two different research tools validate the study’s findings. This study may be replicated in other academic and professional contexts to further validate or challenge its findings. Additionally, future research could assess communicative competence in second- language speakers by evaluating their performance in using speech acts.

Type Thesis/Dissertation MS

Faculty Languages

Department English

Language English

Publication Date 2024-07-31

Subject Linguistics

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