DISCOURSE MARKERS - WHAT ARE THEY? AND WHY SHOULD YOU CARE?

Nikki Jane Author

𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐘 𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 (𝐋𝐏𝐑) 𝐒𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐄 -FLUENCY AND DISCOURSE MARKERS

𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐘 𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 (𝐋𝐏𝐑) 𝐒𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐄 - FLUENCY AND DISCOURSE MARKERS

One key element in achieving fluent and clear communication is the use of discourse markers. They help speakers to structure their speech more naturally and coherently.

And more to the point, they are mentioned in the ICAO Language Proficiency Descriptors. If you have to do an ICAO ELP Exam, you should make sure you know what they are and how to use them.

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The Importance of Fluency in Aviation Communication

The ability to convey messages clearly, efficiently, and accurately can have significant implications for safety and operational efficiency. This is why the ICAO Language Proficiency Rating (LPR) Scale includes specific criteria for fluency and the use of discourse markers. These elements are integral to achieving a high level of language proficiency and ensuring that communication in the aviation context is both reliable and effective.

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ICAO Language Proficiency Descriptors for Fluency

The ICAO Language Proficiency Descriptors provide clear guidelines on what is expected at different levels of language proficiency in terms of fluency and the use of discourse markers:

🔸 ICAO Level 6 says “Uses appropriate discourse markers and connectors spontaneously.”

🔸 ICAO Level 5 says “Can make use of appropriate discourse markers or connectors.”

🔸 ICAO Level 4 says “Can make limited use of discourse markers or connectors.”

🔸 ICAO Levels 3 and below do not mention discourse markers.

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SO WHAT ARE DISCOURSE MARKERS?

Discourse markers are phrases or words that connect, organise, and manage the flow of conversation. They help clarify the speaker's intent, structure thoughts, and ensure the listener can easily follow along. Essentially, they act as signposts in speech, guiding the listener through the speaker's ideas and ensuring that the conversation flows smoothly.

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EXAMPLES OF DISCOURSE MARKERS:

🔹To Express Contrast or Change: However, On the other hand, Conversely

🔹To Add Information: Furthermore, In addition, Moreover

🔹To Show Cause and Effect: Therefore, As a result, Consequently

🔹To Organise Thoughts: Firstly, Secondly, Finally

🔹To Clarify: That is to say, In other words, To clarify

🔹To Summarise: In summary, To sum up, In conclusion

🔹To Emphasise: Indeed, Actually, Especially

🔹To Illustrate or Give Examples: For instance, Such as, Like

🔹To Show Time or Sequence: Then, Next, Subsequently

🔹To Indicate Certainty: Certainly, Of course, Undoubtedly

🔹To Express Condition: If, Unless, Provided that

🔹To Show Emphasis or Agreement: Clearly, Obviously, No doubt

🔹To Reinforce: As I said before, As I previously mentioned, Going back to what I said before

…and many more.

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The Role of Fluency in Aviation

Fluency is more than just speaking without hesitation. In the aviation context, fluency includes the ability to communicate under stress, manage multiple pieces of information, and ensure that all communication is clear and unambiguous. The use of discourse markers enhances fluency by providing a framework within which this communication can occur.

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Practical Tips for Improving Fluency and Use of Discourse Markers

1️⃣ Practice Regularly: Like any other skill, improving fluency and the use of discourse markers requires regular practice. Engage in conversations, listen to native speakers, and try to incorporate discourse markers in your speech.

2️⃣ Listen and Imitate: Pay attention to how native speakers use discourse markers in different contexts. Imitate their usage to get a better understanding of when and how to use these markers appropriately.

3️⃣ Record and Review: Recording your speech and listening to it can help you identify areas for improvement. Focus on how you use discourse markers and try to make your speech more coherent.

4️⃣ Expand Your Vocabulary: A rich vocabulary of discourse markers allows for more precise and varied communication. Learn new markers and practice using them in different sentences.

5️⃣ Seek Feedback: Engage with language instructors or peers who can provide constructive feedback on your use of discourse markers and overall fluency.

6️⃣ Use Authentic Materials: Listening to aviation-related conversations, such as aviation podcasts, can provide context-specific examples of how discourse markers are used.

In summary, the ICAO Language Proficiency Descriptors highlight the importance of discourse markers in achieving fluent and effective communication. By understanding and practicing these markers, you can elevate your language proficiency to meet ICAO standards, ensuring that your communication is always clear, precise, and efficient in the demanding environment of aviation.