E2 ENGLISH COMMUNICATION

Author
Jennylyn L. Bodota
UNIT 1: Theory of
Communication
1.1 WHAT IS COMMUNICATION?
The term 'communication' originates from the Latin words 'communis' and 'communicate',
which means make common' and 'communicate', 'share or sharing'.
DEFINITION
Communication is the ability to express ideas, feelings, and opinions clearly and
convincingly through speech, writing, or signs. It involves sending and receiving messages for
understanding, knowledge, and improving relationships with the world.
 Since communication is not restricted to words or language, it can also be symbolic.
Always use gestures, symbols, or facial expressions to aid you with it. Language is not a
requirement for the presence of the symbols. The process of communication is made
possible by our capacity for symbolism and expression.
 An interchange of meaning and comprehension is another way to conceptualize
communication.
 The transfer of meaning is the primary goal of communication, and meaning is
fundamental to communication.
 The sender initiates communication by sending out message signals, which are then
picked up by the recipient, who interprets them and reacts to them appropriately.
Before the message sent by the sender is correctly decoded and understood at the
receiving end, communication cannot be considered complete. Furthermore, a
communication is only deemed successful when the meaning that was intended by the
sender and the recipient coincide.
Tools of Communication:
There are various tools that helps in the process of communication.
a) Language - Every language's primary purpose is to facilitate communication. Every
language has different forms. It is a vital and essential tool for communication. It is the
easiest tool to use and the most intuitive. Every single person employs these techniques
when communicating with others.
b) Script - This collection of symbols is employed to represent language in written form.
c) Drawing/Painting/Sculpture/Visual Art - These communicate artistically by utilizing
their ingenuity. By virtue of its shape, size, color scheme, and other elements, a little
work of art can express hundreds of sentences.
 d) Body -One of the most vital instruments for communication is the human body.
Language is always involved in the communication process, whether we use it or not.
Without nonverbal clues, communication could be unclear. Our bodies must
demonstrate appropriate behavior in order to back up our words. They could take the
shape of postures, eye contact, gestures, space, etc. All movements and inactions are
components of the body. Another name for this kind of technology is body language.
e) Silence - Silence can also be a useful tool for communicating in some circumstances.
There are various situations in which we are either unable or unwilling to use language
or words. In these kinds of situations, silence can successfully communicate a message.
1.2 Types and Modes of Communication
Types of Communication Based on Purpose and Style:
Based on style and purpose, there are two main categories of communication:
1. Formal Communication
2. Informal Communication
1. Formal communication
When communicating in a formal setting, there are norms, traditions, and principles that
must be adhered to. Official and formal styles are used in formal communication. Professional
environments, business gatherings, and conferences typically follow a rigid schedule. Slang and
vulgar language should not be used in formal conversation, and proper pronunciation is
necessary. Respecting authority boundaries is essential in formal communication. Official
communication is another term for formal communication. When communicating in a formal
setting, we employ formal language. Formal communication is employed in official or serious
contexts. For instance. Discussions, group projects, meetings, presentations, public speaking,
press conferences, lectures, interviews, seminars, speeches, and so forth. It is typically devoid of
sentiment and emotion. For this reason, formal communication is regarded by critics as artificial
communication.
under formal communication, a topic might change depending on where it is discussed,
with whom it is discussed, and under what circumstances. The formal communication style is
also altered by the status and roles of those participating in the process.
2. Informal Communication
Unlike formal communication, informal communication takes place through different routes.
It might be a lighthearted discussion. It is designed for in-person conversations and the social
connections that members of an organization have. It occurs amongst relatives and friends.
Slang terms and filthy language are allowed in casual conversation. Informal communication is
typically done verbally and with gestures. In contrast to formal communication, informal
communication is not hierarchical. Informal conversations allow people to express themselves
more, which is helpful in an organization when it comes to staff issues. Developing relationships
is aided by informal communication. Any communication we have without a serious objective,
whether it be in a professional or social setting, is considered informal communication. For
instance, informal hellos, discreet talks, chit-chatting, gossiping, etc. Natural, unrestricted
communication without rules or formalities is referred to as informal communication. It conveys
emotions, humility, and a personal touch. It's important to realize that formal and casual
communication differ very slightly. The language employed in both forms of communication
varies depending on the nature of the relationship and the environment in which it is being
exchanged. The level of formality in a communication process is determined in part by the
surrounding circumstances.
Types of communication based on the communication channels used are:
1. Verbal Communication
2. Nonverbal Communication
1. Verbal Communication
When a message is communicated verbally, it can be done through writing or by word of
mouth. This type of communication is known as verbal communication. Any communication
that involves language is considered verbal communication.
2. Non- Verbal Communication
Wordless messages can be sent or received through nonverbal communication. Nonverbal
communication is the term used to describe forms of communication other than written and
spoken, such as gestures, body language, posture, tone of voice, and facial expressions. The
main element of nonverbal communication is the speaker's body language. Nonverbal
communication aids in the recipient's interpretation of the message sent. Nonverbal cues
frequently convey information about the situation more clearly than spoken ones. Nonverbal
cues can occasionally contradict spoken communication, which reduces the impact of a
message.
Nonverbal communication have the following three elements:
Appearance:
 Speaker: clothing, hairstyle, neatness, use of cosmetics
 Surrounding: room size, lighting, decorations, furnishings
Body Language:
 facial expressions, gestures, postures
Sounds:
 Voice Tone, Volume, Speech rate
Types of nonverbal communication:
I. Conscious: Winking of an eye, traffic police gestures etc.
II. Subliminal: It affects our mind without our knowledge. Police uniform, Modelling,
Military attire etc.
III. Voluntary or involuntary messages: Communicators are unaware of their body cues.
Scratching the back of your head while telling a lie.

UNIT 2: Language of
Communication
Sign language is a language that is mostly used for manual communication, rather than
sound patterns that are audibly transferred. To convey a speaker's ideas, this may entail mixing
hand shapes, hand orientation and movement, arm or body movement, and facial expressions
all at once. Linguists classify both sign languages and spoken languages—sometimes referred to
as "oral languages"—as forms of natural language since they are largely dependent on sound.
Sign languages exhibit the same linguistic qualities and use the same language faculty as spoken
languages, but there are also some notable distinctions between spoken and signed languages,
such as how they use space grammatically.
They are not to be confused with non-linguistic communication such as body language. Sign
languages have evolved and become integral parts of local deaf cultures wherever there are
deaf communities. While the majority of users of signing are deaf, there are other users as well,
including those who can hear but are unable to speak or have difficulties with spoken language
because of another impairment (augmentative and alternative communication). The number of
sign languages in use is unknown. The idea that sign languages are universal or that they are
international is a frequent misperception.
TWO TYPES OF ORGANIZATIONAL COMMUNICATION:
1. EXTERNAL COMMUNICATION:
-- External communication is the exchange of information between one organization and
another outside organization.
2. INTERNAL COMMUNICATION:
-- Internal communication is the exchange of information within a single organization.
2.1 Personal, Social and Business Communication
i. Personal Communication: A personal communication is when two people communicate
ideas or messages. It might be written or spoken, formal or informal. Since personal
communication lacks the organizational formality of corporate communication, it is
frequently distinguished from the latter. Personal communication is any verbal or
nonverbal exchange between two people that takes place outside of an official
organizational environment.
ii. Social Communication: The sharing of ideas or messages between two groups of people
or between an individual and an individual is known as social communication. Similar to
interpersonal communication, social communication can take several forms: written or
oral, formal or informal, verbal or nonverbal. Social communication is any discussion
that takes place in a public setting as opposed to a private or personal one.
iii. Business Communication: In general, business communication takes place in a formal
setting. Professionals with a defined goal and target audience carry it out. It is
determined by convention, formal frameworks, and rules. It adheres to particular
guidelines and procedures. Formal, technical language is sometimes used in business
communication. It is the process of disseminating data within and about the company.
An email listing the topics to be covered in the upcoming meeting to staff members is an
example of business communication.
2.2 Barriers and Strategies
 Barriers to communication: Any communication's goal is to make our message
understood by the recipient. We presume that people comprehend what we are
saying when we speak with them because we are aware of what we are saying.
But things aren't always like this. People typically add their own attitudes,
perceptions, feelings, and ideas to the discussion, which makes it difficult to
convey the intended message. Improving communication style starts with
identifying obstacles to efficient communication. Some of the more typical
obstacles to communicating are listed below:

a) Lack of Sensitivity to Receiver: When a communication is not tailored to the recipient, a

communication breakdown could occur. Understanding the recipient's requirements,
situation, level of expertise, and language proficiency helps the sender craft an effective
communication. For instance, if a customer is upset, it could be best to just listen to
them rant for a bit.
b) Lack of Basic Communication skills: If the sender finds it difficult to select the exact
words required and put them in a phrase that makes sense grammatically, the recipient
is less likely to comprehend the message.
 c) Insufficient Knowledge of the Subject: The recipient is likely to receive a confusing or
contradictory message if the sender does not include explicit details about anything.
Have you ever gone computer shopping and seen how certain salespeople could simplify
complex concepts and terms? Others are unable to.
d) Information Overload: When you receive a communication that has too much
information, you could become defensive since it comes in so fast and you might find it
difficult to process it all. If your product has twenty-five amazing qualities, choose two
or three to highlight rather than overloading the buyer (ho-hum) with too much
information.
e) Emotional Interference: A sensitive person could find it difficult to communicate.
Someone who is experiencing anger, hostility, resentment, excitement, or terror may be
too consumed by their feelings to comprehend the message that is being sent. You
could find it difficult to "hear" someone if, for example, you don't like them.

 Transmitting Barriers: Communication can be hampered by "noise," which is

defined as obstructions to message transmission. Noise can include some of the
following issues:

I. Physical Distraction: Communication can be ruined by a noisy restaurant or a poor cell

phone connection. An improperly structured email or letter with grammar and spelling
mistakes may make it difficult for the recipient to focus on the content because of its
messy and unprofessional appearance.
II. Conflicting Messages: A message that throws the recipient's perception off can lead to
insufficient communication. Mixed messages are certain to occur, for instance, if
someone frequently utilizes slang or jargon to speak with someone from another nation
who has never heard of such terminology. Conflicting messages can also arise when a
supervisor demands a report right away without allowing the report writer adequate
time to collect the necessary data. Does the report writer place more emphasis on
accuracy in data collection or speed of writing the report?
III. Channel Barriers: If the sender chooses an inappropriate channel of communication,
communication may cease. Detailed instructions presented over the telephone, for
example, may be frustrating for both communicators. If you are on a computer technical
support help line discussing a problem, it would be helpful for you to be sitting in front
of a computer, as opposed to taking notes from the support staff and then returning to
your computer station.
2.3 Levels of Communication: Intra-personal, Inter-personal, and Group Communication
a) Intra-personal communication -Intrapersonal communication occurs within an
individual, frequently with the aim of elucidating concepts or assessing a circumstance.
 At other instances, the purpose of intrapersonal communication is to consider or value
something. This can include thinking and talking to oneself. Internal discourse requires
contemplation, focus, and analysis. Daydreaming and nighttime dreaming are both
considered by psychologists.
inside this group. One form of solo vocal communication is talking out loud to oneself.
This can be done as a way to vent steam, to make ideas more clearer, or to practice a
message for other people. As an illustration, consider complaining to yourself about your
supervisor. Writing intended only for oneself is the subject of solo written
communication. An entry from a personal diary or notebook, for instance.
b) Inter- personal -The sender and the recipient of a message must have a direct, face-to-
face relationship based on mutual dependence in order for interpersonal
communication to occur. This includes any exchange of words or conversations between
two or more individuals. Nonverbal communication in its different forms is just as
important in interpersonal communication as spoken communication. In public
communication, a sizable audience is engaged in a one-way monologue that receives
little in the way of response. Public communication frequently serves the following
goals: persuasion, entertainment, and information exchange. Example: A lecture given
in a college class.
c) Group/Organizational Communication -Three or more people are involved in group
communication, though communication experts disagree about the upper limit of this
range. This style mimics interpersonal communication more when there are fewer
people in the group. It can also be used to describe communication within an
organization or between organizations, which is known as organizational
communication.
d) Extra-personal Communication - Humans engage in extra-personal communication with
non-human entities. Speaking with one's pets is one instance. Likewise, it might be said
that any exchange with inanimate objects qualifies as such.
e) Mass- Communication - Through the use of technology, mass communication is a more
open channel of communication between a wide and diversified audience and an entity.
This might be based on the typically recent past, or it could be in real time or on a taped-
delay basis. Newspapers, periodicals, radio, and television are a few examples.

UNIT 3: Speaking Skills

3.1 Monologue: A monologue is a lengthy speech by a single person. It can be of various
types:
1. Soliloquy
 -A soliloquy is an act of public speech delivered by a character in a play, usually when the
speaker is by themselves or has no audience. A soliloquy is a type of monologue used in
drama in which the speaker is the only person on stage.
2. Interior monologue
-Thinking in words is known as internal monologue, verbal stream of mind, inner voice,
or internal speech. It also describes the semi-continuous, aware or semi-conscious
internal conversation that an individual has with themselves. It is the way a character in
a story expresses their feelings, thoughts, and impressions.
3.2 Dialogue
A dialogue can be either (1) a spoken conversation between two or more individuals or (2) a
conversation that is recounted in a play or story. It's crucial to consider the participants' varied
voices and registers while crafting a dialogue.
3.3 Effective communication/ Miss-Communication
When a message is not sufficiently transmitted or received during a communication,
miscommunication happens. Miscommunication occurs when one party cannot understand the
other or when the sender cannot understand the recipient. When communication encounters
one of the aforementioned obstacles, miscommunication frequently results. When meaning is
adequately communicated and received, communication is considered effective. It is important
to follow the above-discussed tactics for good communication in order to avoid any obstacles to
communication and to have successful conversation.

UNIT 4: Reading and

Understanding
4.1 Summary and Paraphrasing
Including other people's thoughts in your work is perfectly appropriate when you do it in
your own terms. You can accomplish this in two ways: by summarizing and by paraphrasing.
There is a narrow line between what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate paraphrasing
and summarizing, which is why accuracy in these areas is crucial to avoid plagiarism. Rewriting
anything with new words while maintaining the original meaning is known as paraphrasing. This
is the general meaning of the expression "in your own words." The paraphrase is usually the
same length as the original and should be easier to understand. An effective substitute for using
straight quotations are paraphrases.
SUMMARIZING
 Summaries are substantially shorter than the original text because they are intended to
provide an overview of the writings of one or more writers. They are highly helpful when you
want to show the support supplied for and/or against a position you are pursuing in your
argument because they are very succinct summaries of arguments made. Since the original
content was intended to be conveyed in a succinct, digestible style, it is typically shorter.

4.2 Translation
Societies have come to realize that neither individuals nor entire communities exist in
isolation. It becomes important at some point to get in touch with a neighbor or to look for
information from a long time ago. In both situations, translation is necessary if the two parties
do not speak the same language. A translator is a person who has received training in the art
and science of comprehending the relationships between two or more languages as well as the
capacity to interpret one language for a speaker of a language other than their own.