Given-new strategy

Definition

The given-new strategy is a communication approach used in discourse that helps speakers organize their information by linking what is already known (the 'given') with new information (the 'new'). This strategy enhances coherence in communication, making it easier for listeners to follow and understand the flow of ideas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The given-new strategy is essential for creating clarity in both spoken and written communication by structuring sentences to connect familiar and unfamiliar information.
2. Using this strategy allows speakers to build on the listener's prior knowledge, making it easier for them to absorb new concepts.
3. The order in which given and new information is presented can affect the overall understanding, with given information typically appearing first to set a foundation.
4. Listeners often rely on the given-new strategy instinctively, which means that effective communicators should be aware of this tendency to enhance understanding.
5. The application of the given-new strategy can vary across different languages and cultures, impacting how coherence is achieved in communication.

Review Questions

• How does the given-new strategy enhance coherence in communication?
  • The given-new strategy enhances coherence by establishing a clear connection between information the listener already knows and new information being introduced. By presenting familiar concepts first, speakers provide a solid framework for understanding unfamiliar ideas. This method facilitates comprehension and retention, allowing listeners to better follow the conversation or text without getting lost in complex details.
• Discuss how cohesion and coherence work together with the given-new strategy in effective communication.
  • Cohesion and coherence are interdependent elements that contribute to effective communication. Cohesion involves the structural connections within sentences that link ideas through grammatical or lexical means, while coherence pertains to the overall logical flow of those ideas. The given-new strategy utilizes both aspects by ensuring that given information serves as a cohesive anchor for new information, thus promoting clarity and comprehension in discourse.
• Evaluate the impact of cultural differences on the application of the given-new strategy in communication.
  • Cultural differences can significantly influence how the given-new strategy is employed in communication. In some cultures, directness and clarity may be valued more highly, leading to a straightforward application of this strategy. Conversely, other cultures may prefer more indirect approaches, impacting how given and new information is sequenced. Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial for effective cross-cultural communication, as misinterpretations can arise if one fails to recognize differing expectations regarding information presentation.

Related terms

Cohesion: Cohesion refers to the grammatical and lexical connections that link sentences and larger units of text, ensuring that they work together seamlessly.

Coherence: Coherence is the overall clarity and logical flow of a text or discourse, allowing readers or listeners to grasp the underlying meaning and relationships between ideas.

Discourse Markers: Discourse markers are words or phrases used in conversation to manage the flow of dialogue, signal transitions, and indicate relationships between ideas.