Semantics and Pragmatics

Semantics and pragmatics reflect the highest level of complexity of the various areas of linguistics. Phonology, morphology, and syntax are concerned with linguistic form and structure. Semantics and pragmatics have more to do with meaning, inferred and implied meaning, and speech acts. Even beginner-level ELs must learn about English semantics and pragmatics, but more so from a communicative perspective.

As an experienced Spanish language teacher, I am inclined to not include semantics and pragmatics as part of any Spanish language course, because the value it would bring would not be on par with the value students would glean from immersion and practice, and other collaborative task-based learning activities in the classroom.

In situations where linguistics can clarify learner confusion about a language concept, or correct a consistent error, it may be appropriate to refer to phonological concepts in a Spanish language course, but perhaps more so in a one-on-one teacher-student meeting after class. I would still be hesitant to use up class time to make these clarifications and corrections in fear that the language lesson may quickly evolve into a linguistics lesson.

ESL learners have far more to gain by referring to semantics to learn English mainly because of tier circumstances. ELs are already in the U.S. Understanding the simple study of meaning, discourse, and rhetoric is far more important in the short-term SLA goals of ELs than it would be for Spanish language students who don't yet need this level of understanding in their Spanish skillset. ELs must develop a much deeper understanding of word groups such as homonyms, synonyms, antonyms, and compound structures, implied language, and speech acts to heighten students' understanding and awareness of word meaning, sentence relationships, and discourse and context.