Ng Wan Ki; Chu Ying Wai Regina; Chun Ting Nam; Cheng Yan Lam; Ngai Tsz Tung

In this chapter, we look at the underlying distinctions and linkages between speech and writing, two important means of communication. 

5.1.1.3 Evolution 

The chapter also discusses how these two kinds of language have changed throughout time. Humans communicate primarily and naturally through voice, but writing developed later as a way to record and retain information. Culture and society have been significantly impacted by this development.

5.1.1.4 Nature of Writing and Speech 

5.1.1.5 Relationship between speech and writing

Finally, by recognizing the relationship between speech and writing, it broadens our appreciation for language in general. Each mode of communication has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, but when combined, they provide the foundation for human communication.

5.1.2.1 Definition of Spoken Language 

5.1.2.2 Key Features of Spoken Language 

2. Expressing Thoughts

Utilizing spoken language to share our thoughts enables us to express our ideas clearly and participate in meaningful conversations. Through verbal communication, we can convey intricate concepts, share our viewpoints, and offer insights that encourage critical thinking in others. For example, in a conversation about a recent film, we might explore our views on its cinematography and plot twists, highlighting how these elements resonate with our own life stories and emotions.Additionally, the immediacy of spoken language promotes spontaneity, allowing us to adjust our message in response to the audience's reactions. By incorporating tone, emphasis, and nonverbal cues, we enhance our communication, making our thoughts more relatable and impactful. 

3. Expressing Feelings

Speaking our emotions is important to establish an emotional rapport and develop good interpersonal relationships. When emotions are shared through words, we share not just the essence of our feelings but also the subtlety that comes with them, like tone and inflection. Example: "I felt overwhelmed by the support I received" will manifest empathy and understanding among others. The expression in words can be an opening of our fragility, whether to declare joy or sadness, frustration, or gratitude. By vocalizing, our feelings are better processed, and the person is called on to respond, hence creating a bond. When we share what bothers us, clarity sets in within ourselves, besides securing a rapport with others around us by inviting openness into space and more support among the people.

4. Expressing Needs

Expressing our needs through written communication is a crucial aspect of effective interaction and personal empowerment. People are better able to understand and react correctly when we express our needs clearly, whether they be assistance, information, or emotional support. For instance, stating "I need clarification on this topic" not only conveys our request but also opens the door for collaboration and dialogue. Moreover, articulating our needs in writing enhances assertiveness, enabling us to advocate for ourselves in various situations, from personal exchanges to professional environments. By clearly defining our requirements, we minimize potential misunderstandings and cultivate meaningful interactions, ultimately strengthening our relationships and ensuring our perspectives are acknowledged and valued.

5.1.3.1 Definition of Written Language

Written language can be defined as a system of communication that uses symbols (letters, characters, or signs) to represent spoken language and convey meaning.

5.1.3.2 Key Features of Written Language

Permanence: Written language provides a lasting record of communication, allowing messages to be stored and referenced over time.

Formality: Writing tends to be more structured and formal compared to spoken language, often adhering to grammatical rules and conventions.

Planned and Edited: Written communication allows for careful planning and editing, enabling the writer to revise their message for clarity and accuracy before sharing it.

Absence of Immediate Feedback: Unlike spoken language, written language does not allow for real-time interaction, meaning that readers cannot provide instant responses.

Use of Visual Structure: Written language employs formatting elements like paragraphs, headings, and lists to organize information and enhance readability.

Context Independence: Written texts can be understood without the immediate context or presence of the writer, making them accessible to a wider audience.

5.1.3.3  Functions of Written Language

1. Communication: Written language facilitates the exchange of ideas and information over distances and time, enabling individuals to share thoughts without immediate interaction. This is essential for both personal and public discourse (Yule, 2010).

2. Record-Keeping: Writing serves as a means of documenting events, transactions, and knowledge, preserving information for future reference. This function is vital for historical records and legal documentation (Fromkin et al., 2011).

3. Expression: Written language allows individuals to articulate their thoughts and emotions, providing a platform for personal reflection and creative expression. Writers can convey complex ideas through this medium (Crystal, 2008).

4. Persuasion: Written texts are often used to influence opinions and persuade audiences, particularly in advertising, political discourse, and academic writing. This function underscores the importance of rhetoric in written communication (Goffman, 2005).

5. Instruction: Writing is essential in educational contexts, aiding teaching and learning through textbooks and instructional materials, thereby conveying knowledge systematically (Hyland, 2009).

6. Cultural Transmission: Written language plays a significant role in preserving and transmitting cultural values and traditions from one generation to the next, contributing to cultural identity (Barthes, 1977).

7. Analysis and Critique: Writing enables critical examination of ideas and societal issues, fostering deeper understanding and dialogue (Gee, 2014).

8. Standardization: Written language establishes norms and conventions within a language, contributing to clarity and consistency in communication, which is vital for effective understanding among speakers (Halliday, 1985).

In early human communities, a crucial need for effective communication between people had been developed for cooperation, hunting and social bonding (Dunbar, 1996). To achieve efficient and effective communication in complex social life, Languages evolved to enable individuals to share information, express emotions, and coordinate activities (Tomasello, 2008). 

It has been a great challenge to identify the oldest spoken language due to the lack of written records. Written language has not yet been developed when the first spoken language appears. But there are still several languages that considered among the oldest based on historical and linguistic evidence.

Here are some examples for the formal and informal language used in writing.

"Though there’s a tendency to use fewer phrasal verbs in formal language, it’s not wrong to use them"(Park. D.,2007). Using a few phrasal verbs won't make your writing seem too casual. Indeed, there are several instances in which a phrasal verb is the most logical method to convey a concept, even in very formal writing. For example,the phrase "give up" is more natural than the formal word "relinquish".In such example,"give up" has a more relatable and clearer meaning.Therefore,it is suitable for formal writing ans various context.

1) Precision and processing time

2) Complexity

Spoken language is an ever-changing and complex language that is essential to human life. Compared to written language, which is usually formal and organised, speech contains a few features that distinguish it as being more spontaneous and interactive. Understanding and discerning these features will allow us to better appreciate the way in which everyday communication is carried out. 

This section examines the similarities and differences between spoken language and writing. Both forms are crucial for expressing thoughts and ideas and share fundamental components such as vocabulary and grammar. 

As technology merges these forms, recognizing their specific characteristics is essential, especially in educational settings. This chapter highlights how, despite their differences, speech and writing enhance each other in communication.

Halliday (1989) argues that speech and writing “creating different realities”. Writing creates "a world of things”; Speech captures "a world of happening.” Halliday continues this point on differing realities by maintaining that “language is, at one and the same time, a part of reality, an account of reality, and an image of reality”. Therefore, both forms contribute to and record the world around us, just that they differ in representation: “spoken language happens” while “written language exists”.

Both speech and writing serve as essentials for effective communication, sharing information, ideas, and emotions across various contexts. Understanding their similarities enriches our grasp of human interaction.

Purpose

Both speech and writing serve the fundamental purpose of communication, aiming to convey ideas, emotions, and information between individuals or groups. They facilitate understanding and connection, allowing speakers and writers to express their thoughts and influence their audience. Additionally, both forms can inform, persuade, entertain, or evoke responses, making them powerful tools for sharing knowledge and fostering relationships. Despite their differences in delivery and structure, the core objective of engaging the audience remains.

Language

Speech and writing utilize language as a primary tool for communication, relying on vocabulary, grammar, and syntax to convey meaning. They share fundamental linguistic structures, such as sentence formation and the use of rhetorical devices, which enhance clarity and impact. Additionally, both modalities can employ figurative language, tone, and style to evoke emotions and engage the audience. While speech may include more informal and spontaneous language, and writing typically allows for more careful editing and organization, the core principles of effective language use remain consistent across both forms.

Cultural Influence

Speech and writing are deeply influenced by cultural contexts, reflecting the values, beliefs, and norms of the societies from which they emerge. They serve as vehicles for cultural expression, allowing individuals to share traditions, stories, and social practices. Language choices, idiomatic expressions, and rhetorical styles often vary across cultures, shaping how messages are conveyed and interpreted. Additionally, both forms can play a role in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage, whether through oral traditions or written texts, highlighting the interconnectedness of language and culture in human communication.

Evolution 

With technology, the boundaries between speech and writing have blurred, as seen in digital communication platforms like emails and instant messaging.

Personal Connection

Speech creates a deeper emotional connection between the speaker and the audience. The use of voice inflection, facial expressions, and body language enhances engagement and relatability, resulting in a stronger impact.

Immediate Feedback

In oral communication, audience can respond instantly, enabling speakers to adjust their message in real-time. This immediate feedback interaction fosters clarity and understanding, making communication more effective and dynamic.

Dynamic Interaction

Speech allows spontaneous conversation, making interactions vibrant and responsive. Speakers can adopt their tone and focus according to audience reactions, producing a more immersive and engaging experience.

Close Illustration - Demonstrating of Therapy Session

How is Therapy linked to the advantages of Speech?

1. Dynamic and Interpersonal: The client’s emotion and tone shifts according to what comes up to his mind, while the therapist sustains the therapy with advance planning

2. Interactive: Throughout the session, the therapist doesn’t break eye contact and retains a comforting tone

3. Vague and illogical: The client’s unplanned speech shows redundancy features, under- lexicalised talking, fillers are also used to gather overwhelming thoughts

4. Transient and Forgiving: Since the client’s speech is spontaneous and unplanned,  while considering emotional aspects is forgiving

Close Illustration - HKSAR The Chief's Executive's 2024 Policy Address

How is the HKSAR 2024 Policy Address linked to the advantages of Writing?

1. Careful Editing: Written law provides clear and precise language, reducing ambiguity. It is well-formed.

2. Space-bound: The Policy Address serve as a historical record of a society's values and norms over-time. This documentation can be important for future generations and legal evolution.

3. Permanent and Forgiving: Once minutes is written and codified, they create an objective record that defines legal standards to ensure accountability.

4. Formal and Complex: The Chief Executive, Judiciary and Legislative members use written policy address as a foundation for interpretation. They rely on the text of the Policy Address to make decisions and to resolve disputes.

1) Nature and Structure

Texting is a more concise and informal way to express thoughts and ideas, unlike talking. In a text message, the conversational tone is more casual, while in a speech, it is filled with fillers and informal language.

2) Interaction and Context

3) Feedback and Permanence

4) Formality and Function

Conclusion to the Differences between Speech and Writing

Are speech and writing really equally important  in education?

We need to look at textbook materials critically.

Inauthentic spoken model does not reflect reality. Completely authentic spoken model is too confusing for teaching purposes. Semi-authentic spoken model may be the best choice for teaching.

Encouragement for Practice and Improvement

For learners or educators, continual practice in both speech and writing fosters confidence and proficiency forums and writing workshops promotes growth and refinement in communication abilities, making individuals more effective in conveying ideas.

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1. Which of the following statements accurately describes a characteristic of spoken language?

A. Spoken language is primarily instinctive and fixed, similar to animal communication.

B. Spoken language allows for the expression of ideas and emotions through a combination of sounds and syntax.

C. Spoken language is universally the same across all cultures, with no variations in dialects or accents.

D. Spoken language lacks the ability to create new meanings and expressions.

KEY: B

2. Which of the following features is NOT characteristic of spoken language?

A. Immediate Feedback: Allows for real-time interaction between speakers and listeners.

B. Spontaneity: Tends to be more formal and structured compared to writing.

C. Use of Prosody: Employs tone, pitch, and rhythm to convey meaning and emotion.

D. Context-Dependence: Relies on the situational context and non-verbal cues for understanding.

KEY: B

3. What is the key benefit of using rich and evocative descriptive language when sharing observations through spoken language?

A. It simplifies communication by using fewer words.

B. It enhances the clarity of thoughts through straightforward statements.

C. It creates an immersive experience that fosters a deeper connection to the subject.

D. It ensures that conversations remain formal and structured.

KEY: C

4. Which of the following statements accurately reflects a difference between spoken and written language?

A. Both spoken and written language rely on the same level of formality and structure.

B. Spoken language tends to be more immediate and fluid, while written language offers permanence and the ability to reflect on ideas.

C. Written language is characterized by tone and intonation, similar to spoken language.

D. Spoken language uses complex syntax and punctuation more frequently than written language.

KEY: B

5. What is/are the factor(s) causing divergence in spoken and written language?

(a) Development of society (b) Difference in medium (c) Travelling to other places

A. (a) only

B. (b) only

C. (a) and (b)

D. (a), (b) and (c)

KEY: A

6. Which is/are the language(s) considered as the earliest spoken language?

(a) Egyptian Language (b) Sumerian Language (c) Akkadian Language

A. (a) and (b)

B. (b) and (c)

C. (a) and (c)

D. (a), (b) and (c)

KEY: D

7. Which of the followings is NOT correct?

A. The development of spoken language spends over 8000 years.

B. The number of spoken languages is around 7000.

C. There are over 130 language families in spoken languages.

D. There are around 3000 writing systems.

KEY: A

8. Which of the followings is correct?

A. Trading and law implementation create the need to develop writing system.

B. The number of spoken languages is less than that of written languages.

C. The development of complex society decrease the amount of languages.

D. The exact number of writing systems in the world can be found.

KEY: A

9. Which of the following best describes the key characteristics of formal writing?

A. It employs a casual tone, uses slang, and expresses personal opinions.

B. It focuses on clear communication, uses straightforward language, and may include personal anecdotes.

C. It avoids personal opinions, uses complex vocabulary, and favors third-person perspective.

D. It emphasizes humor, contractions, and informal language to engage the reader.

KEY: C

10. Which of the following statements accurately describes the structure of a well-organized paragraph?

A. A paragraph should only contain a topic sentence without supporting details.

B. A paragraph consists of unrelated sentences that do not connect to a central idea.

C. A paragraph includes a topic sentence, supporting sentences with details, and a concluding sentence.

D. A paragraph must be exactly five sentences long to be considered effective.

KEY: C

11. Which of the following best describes the relationship between spoken and written language?

A. They are completely separated and do not influence each other.

B. They are mutually influential and often through contemporary communication.

C. Spoken language is always more important than written language.

D. Writing is only a formal method of communication.

KEY: B

12. What is a challenge educators face in teaching writing skills?

A. Writing is always more engaging than speaking.

B. Students find writing easier than speaking.

C. Writing instruction is often neglected in favor of speaking.

D. Feedback on writing is less important than feedback on speaking.

KEY: C

13. Which of the following is a feature of speech that distinguishes it from writing?

A. It is more formal and structured.

B. It is permanent and can be referenced later.

C. It is always planned and rehearsed.

D. It often includes nonverbal cues.

KEY: D

14. Which is one reason for the importance of both speech and writing in education?

A. Mastering both forms equips individuals with versatile communication tools.

B. They are completely unrelated skills.

C. Writing is always more important than speaking.

D. Speech is the only form of communication that matters.

KEY: A