Learning the Second Language is important as it is essential to every aspect and interaction in our everyday lives. Every sentence we use has the purpose of enabling second language learners to move beyond vocabulary and grammar to the functional aspect of communication. Being able to communicate with each other form bonds, teamwork, and it’s what separates humans from other animal species. Communication drives our lives and better ourselves.
The topics and the exercises of this text aim at enhancement of the learners’ communication skill. Let’s begin with ‘Self-introduction’ as “You only get one chance to create a first and best impression”.
The arrival of a new academic year brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm to students, teachers and parents (although in a different way) and it is high time to practise self introductions. Here, two ways of introducing oneself - in educational atmosphere and for career, are presented for practice as both are indispensable in one’s life.
1.1. Introducing oneself – in an educational atmosphere Take the following communication as an example.
Model 1: Here, Shiva is introducing himself at a volleyball camp: Hi! My name is Shiva. I am 19 years old. I live in Sattur with my parents and brothers. I am a first year Computer Science student. I am pursuing a Certificate Course in Communicative and Functional English after my college hours to improve my language skills. I like Programming and Mathematics. During weekends, I take dancing lessons, swimming and veena. I like puppies. My favorite colour is pink. My favourite food is masala dosa. I want to learn how to play volleyball better. Thank you.
Each of the sentences in this self introduction has a grammatical structure. But, the message of Shiva is more than just subjects, verbs and objects. Each sentence has a purpose or topic.
The topics are:
Hi - GREETING
My name is Shiva. – NAME
I am 19 years old. - AGE
I live in Sattur with my parents and brothers – WHERE YOU LIVE & FAMILY
I am a first year Computer Science student.
I am pursuing a Certificate Course in Communicative and Functional English after my college hours to improve my language skills – CLASS & DISCIPLINE
I like Programming and Mathematics. – SUBJECTS
During weekends, I take dancing lessons, swimming and veena. – HOBBIES
I want to learn how to play volleyball better. – PURPOSE FOR BEING AT CAMP
Thank you.- CLOSING
Once the students are clear about the purpose or topic of each sentence, they can choose which words to say by using the topic as cues to CHOOSE their own words to deliver the message.
