Cultural Impact: Different languages and cultures organize information differently.
Communication Issues: Differences in discourse structures can lead to misunderstandings.
Case of Robyn Kina:

• She was imprisoned due to a lack of intercultural understanding in court.

• Her responses in her Aboriginal language did not align with Western legal expectations.

• In Aboriginal Australian culture, silence is a common response to direct questions.

• Socioeconomic status influences the way people speak.

• Different groups use distinct linguistic registers (e.g., journalists vs. waiters).

  
  

  Cognition as a Social Process:

• It develops through interaction with the social environment.
  Bernstein’s Theory:

• A restricted linguistic code may limit perception and thought.

• The working class might face cognitive barriers due to their linguistic repertoire.

• In a court of law a lawyer treats a judge with formal respect regardless of their personal relationship.

• In politics and religion titles and forms of courtesy reinforce hierarchies.

• In the family, language is more close and emotional but may change at formal events or meetings.

• Formal Style: Precise, structured, and professional; often used in academic and legal settings.

  • Example: In accordance with the regulations, all participants must sign the consent form.

• Informal Style: Conversational, relaxed, and personal; used with friends and close acquaintances.

  • Example: Hey! Wanna grab a coffee later?

• Neutral Style: Direct and balanced, suitable for everyday use.

  • Example: Please submit your assignment by Friday.

Formal Register

• Used in professional, legal, or academic settings.

• Precise and structured language.

• No slang or contractions.

  • Example: Could you tell the court where you were on the night of March 17th?

Informal Register

• Used in casual conversations.

• Slang, contractions, and personal expressions.

  • Example: Where were you last night? I called you for the movies.

Neutral Register

• Used in everyday communication with slight formality.

• Clear and direct language.

  • Example: Did you go out last night, Jimmy?

• Who is speaking? (Teacher, friend, lawyer, etc.)

• Who is the addressee? (Student, peer, court, etc.)

• Where is the conversation happening? (School, home, court, etc.)

• What is the purpose of communication? (Casual talk, legal inquiry, class discussion)