10.1 Introduction
Introduction to Systemic Functional Grammar
Developed primarily by M.A.K. Halliday, SFG offers a framework for understanding how language works as a system of meaning-making. Unlike traditional grammars that often focus on language as a set of rules for forming correct sentences, SFG views language as a resource that speakers and writers draw upon to achieve their communicative goals in various contexts.
At its core, SFG posits that language is inherently functional. This means that every choice we make in language – from the words we select to the way we structure our sentences – serves a specific purpose in conveying meaning. SFG emphasizes the relationship between language and its social context, arguing that the structure of language is shaped by the functions it performs in human interaction.
Key Principles of SFG:
Language as a Resource: Language is not just a set of rules, but a vast system of choices available to users to create meaning.
Contextual Relevance: Language is always used in a context, and this context significantly influences linguistic choices. SFG explores how language functions in different social situations.
Meaning-Making: The primary focus is on how language constructs meaning, rather than just describing its formal properties.
Systemic Nature: Language is seen as a network of interconnected systems, where choices at one level impact choices at another.
Throughout this material, we will explore the fundamental concepts of SFG, enabling you to analyze texts more deeply and understand the intricate relationship between linguistic choices and their communicative effects.