The importance of discourse markers in English learning and teaching

Abstract

With the wave of development of discourse analysis, more and more linguists and pedagogists begin to apply the research findings and results in this field to language learning and teaching and so far have provided a lot of help. However, whether it is also true for Chinese English learners in using these markers needs further proof. Thus this dissertation aims to investigate into the applicability of DM theory to Chinese teachers and learners in evaluation DMs and the problems they have in learning and using them. Through the analysis on both the qualitative and quantitative results, the research supports and proves the important position of dms in language learning and teaching. It also points out the problems faced by the learners and suggests some possible means for both teachers and students to solve the problems. Later it provides a possible way for the future teaching of dms, which in turn might provide a useful framework for other teaching methods. As a result of the theoretical analysis and the research, the paper concludes that dms do occupy a position in English learning and teaching. It is quite advisable and necessary to pay enough attention to them and try to apply and use them automatically, correctly and appropriately with the help of teachers. Also any over-emphasis on these dms should be avoided against a distraction from the subject matter and together with other methods to facilitate learning process and to bring out a most efficient and effective result in language learning. © 2013 ACADEMY PUBLISHER Manufactured in Finland.