Text Purpose & Audience
A poster says “School BBQ – Everyone welcome.” What is the purpose?
To invite people to attend the event.
Why is “Wash hands before returning to work” written as a command?
Hygiene rules must be followed; commands prevent misunderstanding.
Why bold some times on a bus timetable?
To highlight key or peak-time departures.
What can you infer from “Thanks again for your patience”?
There was a delay or inconvenience earlier.
Why include a greeting in workplace email?
To set professional, respectful tone.
How can one text have two purposes?
A text can both inform (facts) and instruct (actions) depending on the features used.
What does “Employees are expected to…” mean?
It signals responsibility—required behaviour—but softer than “must.”
What does “Volunteers needed – training provided” imply?
No experience required; beginners welcome.
“Please see me after class.” What tone does this suggest?
Serious and formal; something important needs discussing.
Why use short sentences in instructions?
Clearer, easier to follow, reduces mistakes.
A message starts with “Attention parents and carers.” How does this affect the language?
Language must be clearer, more formal, and avoid slang because the audience expects professionalism.
Why is “Can u change my shift???” inappropriate in workplace email?
Too casual
• Incorrect spelling (“u”)
• Excess punctuation
• Unprofessional tone
Why send a second reminder if the newsletter already mentioned “Bring your laptop”?
To increase compliance; people often forget or skip newsletters.
A notice has no date. What issues could this cause?
Confusion; people won’t know when to attend; low participation.
Why must key points in a 1-min oral be short?
To stay focused and prevent overwhelming the audience.
What does ALL CAPS (“DO NOT ENTER – CLEANING IN PROGRESS”) suggest?
Urgency, seriousness, and that immediate action is required.
Why include diagrams AND written instructions in training?
Visuals improve clarity, prevent errors, and help different learners.
Why is accurate information more important in a medical form?
Incorrect contacts or details could cause safety or health risks.
“Only 3 places left—act now!” What persuasive strategy is used?
Creating urgency / scarcity to influence action.
Why is slang inappropriate in workplace communication?
Can sound unprofessional or disrespectful; may cause misunderstanding.
A newsletter includes a principal’s message, awards, and reminders. How does each target a different audience?
Principal’s message → whole school community
Awards → students & parents
Reminders → students & staff
A single newsletter can address several audiences at once.
What must differ between:
a friendly coworker reminder
a formal HR warning letter?
Friendly: warm tone, simple language
HR letter: formal tone, precise wording, clear consequences
A community newsletter explains a noisy construction project AND gives tips to reduce disruption. What’s the deeper purpose?
To maintain goodwill with residents and reduce complaints—not just inform.
Compare:
“We encourage you to attend.”
“You are required to attend.”
What are the implications?
“Encourage” = optional, supportive, voluntary
“Required” = mandatory, consequences likely if ignored, more formal tone
A student gives a great talk but speaks too quickly. How does delivery affect meaning?
Listeners miss information; Reduces clarity; Decreases confidence and credibility