features，features of language

Language features

Language: A system of symbols

Language is a system of vocal (and written) symbols with meaning attached that is used for human communication of thoughts and feelings.

Universal characteristics of language

1. Arbitrariness: The relationship between the form of a linguistic sign and its meaning is arbitrary.
2. Productivity: Language is productive, allowing for the creation of new utterances.
3. Discreteness: Language is composed of discrete units that can be combined in various ways.
4. Displacement: Language allows humans to talk about the past, future, and hypothetical situations.

Task-based Language Teaching (TBLT)

TBLT is a development of Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) that combines form-focused teaching with communication-focused teaching for language learning.

Four components of language learning

1. Listening: Understanding spoken language.
2. Speaking: Producing spoken language.
3. Reading: Understanding written language.
4. Writing: Producing written language.

Consciousness of style

Academic language requires avoiding contractions, hesitation fillers, colloquialisms, exclamatory and imperative sentences for a formal tone.

What to avoid in academic language?

In conclusion, language is a complex system of symbols that allows for communication and expression of thoughts and feelings. Understanding the design features of language, language teaching methods, and academic language features is essential for effective communication and learning.