Language in Use 213-214
This unit is concerned with a particular aspect of relationships between individuals. It
focuses upon the kind of situation that requires the exercise of tact by at
least one of those involved, if acute embarrassment is not to be caused to all
concerned.
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[1] In this session, the class should be divided into small groups to prepare and rehearse a situation similar to the examples listed at the encl.
[2] In this session, half of the sketches should be presented. Each
sketch should be followed by a discussion in which the focus should be upon
questions like
(a) what is the nature of the embarrassment or awkwardness?
(b) does it matter that people should be able to exercise tact of this kind?
(c) how well does the language of the sketch cope with it'
(d) what would happen if no attempt was made by anyone present to avoid embarrassment?
[3] In this session, the rest of the sketches should be presented. The
class should now be in a position to observe and comment upon the way in which
language is used in exercising tact. Points to focus upon include: change
in form of address; hesitations and pauses; change in level of formality; the
use of irony; changes in the pattern of intonation; particular words and phrases
drawn upon; the role of key words like 'please', 'sorry'; what is only implied,
not stated; what is not said at all. Possible subjects for sketches:
(a) aunt delays niece or nephew already late for date
(b) bus conductor falls into passenger's lap
(c) shop assistant or waiter dealing with difficult customer
(d) car salesman discovers that potential customer knows more about cars than
he does
(e) workman complains to foreman about latter's 'bad' language
(f) headmaster complains to parent about child's behaviour.