Sinclair and Coulthard’s ‘IRF’ Model in a One-To-One Classroom: An Analysis
Keywords:
Sinclair and Coulthard model, one-on-one learning, Shakespeare, classroom discourse analysisAbstract
This paper explores the application of the Sinclair and Coulthard model of discourse analysis to a one-on-one classroom setting, specifically while teaching Shakespeare's Macbeth to advanced students. The study reviews the model's theoretical foundations, its hierarchical structure, and addresses criticisms regarding its limitations, such as the inability to account for para-linguistic features and the phenomenon of double labelling. Through detailed analysis of recorded classroom interactions, the paper demonstrates the model's adaptability despite its challenges, particularly in identifying and categorizing various acts and moves within the discourse. Despite the model's shortcomings, it provides valuable insights into classroom dynamics and the intricacies of teaching complex literature. The paper concludes by advocating for further research to enhance understanding of discourse patterns in unique educational settings.
References
Atkins, A. 'Sinclair and Coulthard’s ‘IRF’ model in a one-to-one classroom: an analysis'. 2001. https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/Documents/college-artslaw/cels/essays/csdp/Atkins4.pdf.
Coulthard, M. (Ed). Advances in Spoken Discourse Analysis. London: Routledge. 1992.
Farooq, M. “Examining a Male Teacher’s Attention in a Mixed-sex EFL Japanese High School Classroom Based on the Sinclair-Coulthard model”. 2000. University of Birmingham, Master of Arts Dissertation. https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/documents/college-artslaw/cels/essays/matefltesldissertations/fardiss.pdf
Francis, G., & Hunston, S. (1992). “Analysing Everyday Conversation”. In M. Coulthard (Ed.), Advances in Spoken Discourse Analysis. London: Routledge. 123-161.
Halliday, Michael Alexander Kirkwood. "Categories of the Theory of Grammar." WORD, vol. 17, no.2, 1961, pp. 241-292. https://doi.org/10.1080/00437956.1961.11659756
Nunan, D. Research Methods in Language Learning. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 1992.
Shakespeare, W. The Merchant of Venice. Edited by B A Mowat and P Werstine, Simon & Schuster, 2004.
Sinclair, John and Coulthard, M. “Towards an Analysis of Discourse”. In Coulthard, M. (Ed). Advances in Spoken Discourse Analysis. London: Routledge. 1992. 1-34.
Willis, Dave. “Caught in the Act: Using the Rank Scale to Address Problems of Delicacy”. In Coulthard, M. (Ed). Advances in Spoken Discourse Analysis. London: Routledge. 1992. 111-122.
