Pragmatics
Pragmatics and discourse analysis is the study of how we communicate with language. Pragmatics is an examination of the social construct of language. Every language has cultural norms that govern how language is used. For instance, in many cultures it is considered impolite to look someone in the eye when addressing them, particularly a person of respect like a teacher. If a teacher understands that this may be awkward for some students, s/he will have empathy for the student and can explain the classroom expectations in a way that does not alienate the student.
A knowledge of pragmatics will help teachers appreciate the diversity of the classroom and allow teachers to teach ELLs how to communicate effectively in the classroom setting. Strategies for encouraging verbal exchanges include teacher modeling of what exchanges are expected in their classroom setting, as well as providing lots of opportunity for peer to peer discussion. Giving students the opportunity to talk will promote their oracy.
To learn more about the importance of teaching pragmatics to ELLs, click here.