Comparison of authenticity in conversations in American TV dramas and movies

Rho, Yoon Ah

Article

Journal of English Teaching through Movies and Media 2009;10(2):51-78.
Published online December 30, 2009.

Comparison of authenticity in conversations in American TV dramas and movies

Yoon Ah Rho

미국 드라마와 영화의 진정성 비교 연구

노윤아

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to compare the authenticity of conversations in American TV dramas with conversations in movies. These days, English language learners show great interest in American TV dramas. Compared to movies, however, there are few studies about using these TV dramas for English language education. It could therefore be valuable to analyze the authenticity of conversations in American TV dramas. Authenticity in study material is a crucial factor for maintaining student interest in and motivation for language learning. The language functions of apologizing and greeting were chosen to be analyzed. It was found that, in terms of situation, these functions were more authentic in TV dramas than in movies. The situations in TV dramas were more realistic and exciting. It is suggested that we should take advantage of the situational authenticity in TV dramas to develop textbooks which would help to increase students' interest in and motivation for language learning.

Key Words: American TV drama;authenticity;adjacency pair;language function