34.2825, Review: Discourse Analysis, History of Linguistics, Semantics, Syntax: Caldwell, Knox, Martin (eds.) (2022)

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LINGUIST List: Vol-34-2825. Wed Sep 27 2023. ISSN: 1069 - 4875.

Subject: 34.2825, Review: Discourse Analysis, History of Linguistics, Semantics, Syntax: Caldwell, Knox, Martin (eds.) (2022)

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Date: 07-Aug-2023
From: Mashael Althobiti [mashael.aied at gmail.com]
Subject: Discourse Analysis, History of Linguistics, Semantics, Syntax: Caldwell, Knox, Martin (eds.) (2022) 


Book announced at https://linguistlist.org/issues/34.1

EDITOR: David Caldwell
EDITOR: John S. Knox
EDITOR: J. R. Martin
TITLE: Appliable Linguistics and Social Semiotics
SUBTITLE: Developing Theory from Practice
SERIES TITLE: Bloomsbury Studies in Systemic Functional Linguistics
PUBLISHER: Bloomsbury Publishing (formerly The Continuum International
Publishing Group)
YEAR: 2022

REVIEWER: Mashael Althobiti

Summary

Appliable Linguistics and Social Semiotics'' is a remarkable book that
delves into the fascinating intersection of linguistics and social
semiotics. Authored by renowned linguists and semioticians, the book
provides an in-depth exploration of how these two disciplines
intertwine and contribute to our understanding of language and
communication in various social contexts. The chapters comprising this
volume masterfully showcase the intrinsic interplay between
description, practice, and systemic functional theory, and we have
thoughtfully organized the content to reflect this dialectic.  The aim
of the book ''Appliable Linguistics and Social Semiotics'' is to focus
on the processes of conducting research and constructing theory within
the fields of linguistics and social semiotics. The authors' vision
for this volume is to provide a platform for authors to share and
document their research experiences. By doing so, the book seeks to
offer valuable insights to both novice and experienced researchers and
practitioners. The book aims to move beyond the typical
''outcomes-based'' approach to reporting research, commonly found in
journal articles and book chapters. Instead, it emphasizes the
importance of understanding how and why various theoretical and
practical issues have been addressed in their respective research
projects. By delving into the experiential aspect of research, the
book aims to inspire readers to explore their own contexts and
perspectives.

Ultimately, the authors hope that by sharing these stories of research
experiences, the readers will be encouraged to approach their own
research endeavours with renewed enthusiasm and creativity. They
aspire to foster a spirit of exploration and innovation, inspiring
readers to contribute to the development of theory in ways that have
not yet been imagined. The book encourages researchers to go beyond
the traditional boundaries of knowledge and to push the frontiers of
understanding within the fields of appliable linguistics and social
semiotics. The target audience for this book comprises scholars,
researchers, and students with a keen interest in the realms of
linguistics and social semiotics.

The book is divided into several parts, with the first part titled
''Innovative Description,'' comprising four chapters that delve into
cutting-edge approaches for describing linguistic and semiotic
phenomena. These chapters are as follows: Chapter 1: ''Graduation in
Research Writing: Managing the Dual Demands of Objectivity and
Critique'' by Susan Hood` Chapter 2: ''A Balancing Act: Theorizing
Compositional Choices in Photographs'' by Helen Caple, Chapter 3:
''Developing a Multimodal Rank Scale'' by John S. Knox and Chapter 4:
''A Hip-Hop Battle: Describing Sound in the Contested Academy'' by
David Caldwell. The authors showcase novel methods and techniques that
go beyond traditional approaches, shedding light on language use in
diverse social contexts and providing readers with a comprehensive and
nuanced understanding.

The second part, ''Innovative Practice,'' explores the application of
groundbreaking methods within linguistics and social semiotics. This
section demonstrates how theoretical frameworks can be translated into
practical action, enabling readers to see the real-world impact of
linguistic and semiotic theories. By engaging with these practices,
readers gain deeper insights into effective language use and
communication in practical contexts. Part Two is the longest section,
comprising nine chapters. Chapter Five (“There are known unknowns …’:
Turning to Systemic Functional Linguistics to Understand Language Use
in a Classified Military Context by Elizabeth A. Thomson”) addresses
the concept of uncertainty in linguistic and semiotic research,
emphasizing the importance of recognizing knowledge gaps and the
limitations of current theories. This recognition allows scholars to
focus their efforts and contribute to the advancement of appliable
linguistics and social semiotics. Chapter Six (Designing Pedagogic
Registers: Reading to Learn by David Rose) focuses on creating
pedagogic registers that enhance reading for learning purposes,
highlighting the thoughtful application of linguistic and social
semiotic principles to optimize reading experiences in educational
settings.

Chapter Seven (“Developing a Systemic Functional Grammar of Korean as
a Resource for Practical Application by Mira Kim) delves into
developing a systemic functional grammar of the Korean language,
creating a comprehensive linguistic resource for practical application
in various contexts. Chapter Eight (The Reading to Learn Bilingual
Programme: Taking Multilingualism into Genre-based Pedagogic Practices
by Harni Kartika Ningsih) explores the implementation of a bilingual
program that leverages multilingual resources to support language
learners in comprehending and producing texts across different genres.
Chapter Nine (Big Data and Managing Multimodal Complexity by Kay L.
O’Halloran, Sabine Tan, Peter Wignell, Rebecca Lange, Kevin Chai, and
Michael Wiebrands) discusses the use of big data to manage the
complexities of multimodal communication, providing valuable insights
into the interplay of various semiotic modes in communication.

Chapter Ten (Our Own Double Helix: The Power of Teachers and Students
Understanding How Language Works in Schooling Contexts by Brian Dare
and John Polias) highlights the importance of linguistic awareness
among educators and learners to optimize language use and learning
outcomes in educational settings. Chapter 11 (Appliability’ of SFL in
Two Academic Contexts in Argentina: Developing the Teaching of
Academic Genres in Spanish by Estela Inés Moyano) exhibits the
practical applicability of Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) in
educational contexts, fostering improved language proficiency and
genre understanding. Chapter 12 (Developing an SFL-inspired Four-year
Collegiate Foreign Language Programme: Contexts, Constructs,
Curriculum by Heidi Byrnes) explores the application of SFL principles
in designing a collegiate foreign language program, while Chapter 13
(Putting Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) and Sydney School Genre
Pedagogy (SSGP) to Work in a Compulsory First-year Arts Subject by
Shoshana Dreyfus and Trish Weekes) applies SFL and genre pedagogy in
an art subject to enhance students' learning experiences and genre
understanding.

Part Three contains Chapters 14 to 20, which explore various
applications of linguistics and semiotics in diverse contexts. The
chapters and their respective authors are as follows:
Chapter 14: ''Modelling Newborn Screening Genetics Diagnosis Texts:
Language as a Tool for Research and Treatment of Sickle Cell Disease''
by Giacomo Figueredo and Kelen Cristina Sant’Anna de Lima; Chapter 15:
''Re-reading Reading Images'' by Theo van Leeuwen; Chapter 16: ''The
Appraisal Framework and Analyses of Journalistic Discourse:
Objectivity, Subjectivity, and Attitudinal Positioning'' by Peter R.R.
White; Chapter 17: ''Binding and Bonding: A Retrospective and
Prospective Gaze'' by Maree Stenglin; Chapter 18: ''Affiliation: An
Appliable Framework for Exploring Community and Identity in
Discourse'' by Lorenzo Logi and Michele Zappavigna; Chapter 19:
''Semiotic Description: Grappling with Mathematics'' by Y. J. Doran;
Chapter 20: ''Revisiting the Modelling of ‘Big texts’ in SFL: The Role
of Embedding in Construing ‘Depth’ in Long Business Reports'' by
Eszter Szenes.

Each of these chapters presents unique perspectives on the application
of linguistics and semiotics in different fields, including research
and treatment of sickle cell disease, the analysis of images in
communication, journalistic discourse, communication dynamics,
community and identity exploration, semiotics in mathematics, and
modeling extensive texts using systemic functional linguistics.

In Part Four, ongoing research and explorations in appliable
linguistics are presented. Chapters (21 to 27) cover diverse topics,
such as analyzing classroom discourse, the construal of knowledge in
Mandarin Chinese, the role of semiotic software in communication,
language practices in bilingual families, revitalizing endangered
genres, and more. The individual chapters are as follow:  Chapter 21
''Re-thinking the Unit of Phase in the Analysis of Classroom
Discourse'' by Lucy Macnaught;  Chapter 22''Construing Knowledge
through Mandarin Chinese: A Discourse Semantic Perspective'' by Jing
Hao; Chapter 23 ''Semiotic Software through the Lens of Systemic
Functional Theory'' by Emilia Djonov and Theo van Leeuwen; Chapter 24
''Reading to Learn, Learning to Teach: Emergent Bilingual Latina/o/x
Parents Read in English to Their Young Emergent Bilingual Children at
Home'' by Andrés Ramírez;  Chapter 25 ''Revitalizing an Endangered
Genre: Applying Genre Theory and the Teaching and Learning Cycle'' by
Anna Crane;  and Chapter 26 (''Teaching the Nation: Iconography and
Nationalism in English Language Textbooks in Post-War Sri Lanka'' by
Namala Tilakaratna.)  discusses the portrayal of nationalism and
iconography in English language textbooks in post-war Sri Lanka,
exploring how language materials shape national identity after
conflict. Chapter 27 (Bodies Talk: Modelling Paralanguage in Systemic
Functional Linguistics'' by Lorenzo Logi, Michele Zappavigna, and J.
R. Martin.) delves into the modeling of paralanguage in systemic
functional linguistics, investigating how non-verbal elements
contribute to meaning making and communication.

In Part Four of the book ''Appliable Linguistics and Social
Semiotics,'' ongoing research and explorations in appliable
linguistics are presented through a series of diverse chapters (21 to
27). These chapters cover a broad spectrum of topics, including the
analysis of classroom discourse, the construal of knowledge in
Mandarin Chinese from a discourse semantic perspective, the role of
semiotic software in communication, language practices in bilingual
families, revitalizing endangered genres, and more. Chapter 21, titled
''Re-thinking the Unit of Phase in the Analysis of Classroom
Discourse'' by Lucy Macnaught, delves into innovative approaches to
understanding classroom communication. Chapter 22, ''Construing
Knowledge through Mandarin Chinese: A Discourse Semantic Perspective''
by Jing Hao, explores the nuances of knowledge representation in
Mandarin Chinese language discourse. Chapter 23, ''Semiotic Software
through the Lens of Systemic Functional Theory'' by Emilia Djonov and
Theo van Leeuwen, investigates the implications of systemic functional
theory on the study of semiotic software and its role in
communication. Chapter 24, ''Reading to Learn, Learning to Teach:
Emergent Bilingual Latina/o/x Parents Read in English to Their Young
Emergent Bilingual Children at Home'' by Andrés Ramírez, focuses on
language practices within bilingual families and their impact on
language learning and teaching. Chapter 25, ''Revitalizing an
Endangered Genre: Applying Genre Theory and the Teaching and Learning
Cycle'' by Anna Crane, explores the revival of endangered genres
through the lens of genre theory and its application to teaching and
learning. Chapter 26, titled ''Teaching the Nation: Iconography and
Nationalism in English Language Textbooks in Post-War Sri Lanka'' by
Namala Tilakaratna, discusses the portrayal of nationalism and
iconography in English language textbooks in post-war Sri Lanka,
exploring how language materials shape national identity after
conflict. Chapter 27, titled ''Bodies Talk: Modelling Paralanguage in
Systemic Functional Linguistics'' by Lorenzo Logi, Michele Zappavigna,
and J. R. Martin, delves into the modeling of paralanguage in systemic
functional linguistics, investigating how non-verbal elements
contribute to meaning making and communication. These chapters
collectively offer a comprehensive exploration of appliable
linguistics, providing valuable insights into diverse linguistic
phenomena and their practical applications in various contexts.

Evaluation

The book provides a solid foundation by introducing readers to
fundamental concepts in linguistics and social semiotics. It then
delves deeper into these theories, offering detailed analyses and case
studies that demonstrate their practical applications. Real-life
examples add depth and relevance to the discussions, showing readers
how these theories manifest in everyday situations. Moreover, the book
draws insights from various disciplines, such as sociology,
anthropology, psychology, and communication studies, creating an
interdisciplinary approach that enriches the text and offers a
holistic perspective on language and semiotics' role in shaping social
dynamics and cultural practices. ''Appliable Linguistics and Social
Semiotics'' stands as a remarkable contribution to the field of
linguistics and social semiotics. It delves into the intersection of
these two disciplines and explores how they intertwine to contribute
to our understanding of language and communication in various social
contexts. The book's emphasis on practical application and innovative
approaches sets it apart from traditional literature in the field.

The authors of the book, David Caldwell, John S. Knox, and J. R.
Martin are renowned scholars in the field of linguistics and social
semiotics. Their work in this book adds to the existing body of
literature on these topics and provides a unique perspective on the
applicability of linguistic theories and semiotic concepts in
real-world contexts.

A notable strength of the book is its comprehensive and accessible
approach. The author adeptly presents complex theories in a clear and
concise manner, making it suitable for both academics and
non-specialist readers seeking to understand the intricate
relationship between language and society. The engaging and
intellectually stimulating writing style enhances comprehension.
Visual aids, like diagrams and illustrations, further facilitate
understanding, especially when discussing complex semiotic frameworks.

However, it is worth noting that the book assumes a certain level of
prior knowledge in linguistics and semiotics. Some readers new to
these fields may find certain sections slightly dense or demanding.
Nevertheless, perseverance will reward readers with valuable insights
and a deeper appreciation for the subject matter. Furthermore, the
book explores the relationship between language, culture, and society,
examining how language choices reflect and shape social hierarchies,
gender roles, and cultural norms. The author also highlights the
dynamic nature of language, discussing how it evolves and adapts in
response to social and cultural changes.

In addition to its theoretical and analytical aspects, the book offers
practical guidance for researchers, educators, and practitioners
interested in applying linguistic and semiotic theories. It provides
methodological tools and frameworks for conducting meaningful analyses
and understanding the social and cultural implications of language
use.

In summary, ''Appliable Linguistics and Social Semiotics'' is a
commendable contribution to the field. Its coherent explanations,
compelling examples, and interdisciplinary approach make it an
essential resource for students, researchers, and anyone interested in
exploring the intricate relationship between language, semiotics, and
society.

Overall, the book bridges the gap between theory and practice,
offering a highly informative and insightful exploration of the
relationship between language, signs, and society. It equips readers
with the necessary knowledge and tools to critically analyse and apply
linguistic and semiotic theories in various domains. The rich and
diverse collection of research and insights makes it a valuable
resource for scholars, researchers, and students interested in
linguistics and social semiotics. Its focus on innovation and
practical applications ensures that readers can engage with fresh
perspectives and explore the dynamic nature of these disciplines in
real-world contexts.

ABOUT THE REVIEWER

Mashael Althobiti is a lecturer in the English Language and Literature
department at Taibah University in Saudi Arabia. Her main research
interests lie in Discourse Analysis, Corpus Linguistics, and Media
Discourse. In 2019, she successfully completed her Master's degree at
the University of Reading, specializing in the field of syntax.
Currently, she is diligently pursuing her Ph.D. research, which
involves an innovative combination of her interests in Critical
Discourse Analysis (CDA) and corpus linguistics.



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