Using Hymes’ SPEAKING Model to Describe a Typical University Classroom Interaction

Using Hymes’ SPEAKING model, a typical interaction during a university lecture can be described in a detailed and structured way. The model provides insight into how social, cultural, and communicative factors shape everyday conversations in institutional settings like the classroom.

S – Setting and Scene: The interaction takes place in a university classroom on a weekday morning. The physical setting includes rows of desks, a projector screen, and a whiteboard. The atmosphere is formal but relaxed enough for students to participate freely. This academic environment influences how both students and the lecturer use language—mainly formal English with occasional conversational tones.

P – Participants: The main participants are the lecturer and the students. The lecturer is responsible for delivering the lesson and guiding the discussion, while the students are expected to listen, take notes, ask questions, and contribute when necessary. Sometimes, a class representative may help organise the discussion or assist with classroom logistics.

E – Ends (Goals): The lecturer’s goal is to teach and ensure that students understand the topic of the day. The students’ goals include learning, clarifying doubts, completing required activities, and demonstrating understanding through participation. Both parties aim to achieve an effective teaching–learning process.

A – Act Sequence: The lecturer begins by greeting the class and introducing the topic, for example, “Today, we will be examining language varieties.” She then explains key points using slides and real-life examples. After the explanation, students are invited to ask questions. One student might say, “Sir, is sociolect the same as dialect?” and the lecturer responds with clarification. The interaction concludes with a short summary of the lesson and instructions for the next class.

K – Key (Tone or Manner): The tone of the interaction is mostly formal and instructional, as expected in an academic environment. However, the lecturer may occasionally adopt a friendly or humorous tone to engage students. Students usually respond respectfully, although they may speak more casually among themselves during group activities.

I – Instrumentalities: The main channel of communication is spoken English, which is the language of instruction. The lecturer may also use PowerPoint slides, the whiteboard, printed handouts, or the school’s learning management system. Non-verbal cues—such as nodding, raising a hand, or pointing at a slide—also play a role in the interaction.

N – Norms of Interaction and Interpretation: There are clear norms governing the interaction. Students are expected to raise their hands before speaking, avoid interrupting the lecturer, and use polite forms of address such as “sir” or “ma.” The lecturer, on the other hand, controls turn-taking and maintains classroom discipline. Everyone interprets these norms as appropriate behaviour in a university setting.

G – Genre: The interaction belongs to the genre of classroom discourse, which includes lectures, question-and-answer sessions, academic explanations, and sometimes brief discussions or group presentations. This genre follows a predictable pattern that both the lecturer and students recognise.