Prosodic Features Of English-A Perspective Of Language Functions

Language is the most important communication tool for human beings. Daily communication is realized not only by means of verbal expressions, but by means of the individual or interactive influence of prosodic (suprasegmental) features such as pitch, loudness, tempo, and rhythm as well. As indispensable parts of language, prosodic features are supposed to embody all the language functions. Linguists such as John J. Gumperz, Roman Jakobson, Geoffrey Leech, Dell Hymes and M. A. K. Halliday classified language functions into different categories from different perspectives, among which there are referential function, expressive function, poetic function, etc. Leech's classification synthesizes many other linguists'classifications, and thus is the most representative one. This study, based on Leech's model, attempts to comprehensively explore the informational function, expressive function, directive function, phatic function, and aesthetic function of prosodic features of English so as to verify the fact that various language functions of prosodic features are fulfilled in communication by variation of pitch, loudness, tempo and rhythm.The investigation, conducted among 207 informants who are either English majors or non-English majors, reflects that under the present educational environment, college students have limited knowledge of prosodic features. However, most of the students acknowledge the importance of them in communication and point out the necessity of being imparted relevant knowledge.The results of the study and the investigation bring about inspirations for English teaching. The skill and knowledge of prosodic features should be more extensively and thoroughly integrated into the teaching of phonetics and phonology. A comprehensive and systematic understanding of prosodic features is the prerequisite for bringing the language functions concerned into full play to ensure effective communication.