Analyze SMS Language

Description of the activity:

Step 1:

The class is divided into two or more groups. Each group is given the assignment to formulate a text with a specified structure. One group formulates an SMS message and the other a regular text message (e.g. a letter or postcard). Both groups must keep track of the number of characters. They each get 10' time.

For example, the assignment is as follows:

Formulate your message in such a way that it addresses the following elements:

• Opening greeting

• Ask where your friend is

• Suggest a visit to the cinema

• Ask for an answer

• Closing.

Step 2:

After the agreed time, both texts are compared and discussed.

Guiding questions include, for example:

• What are the differences between a letter and a text?

• Which expressions have become part of the text reduced by SMS?

• Are certain media more or less suitable for certain messages?

Step 3: all groups are given the task to formulate a standard response as a text message, using as few characters as possible. The results can be presented and discussed by the class.

The standard answer, for example, is as follows: “Hello Benny. Thank you for your answer! I'm glad you want to go to the movies with me. We'll meet at my house at 5:00 PM. Please be on time. See you later!".

Points of attention

This assignment is fun, recognizable for most students and does not require much extra material. In principle, a single mobile phone is sufficient.