TUTORIAL

WEEK 4

P R E PA R E D B Y : A N A S , H A M Z A H & Z U L H E L M I
 QUESTION 3:
EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF TEACHER’S POLITENESS. MATCH TEACHER’S
VERBAL AND NON-VERBAL POLITENESS ACCORDING TO THE NORMS OF
A MALAYSIAN SOCIETY

Definition:

Politeness is the practical application of good manners or etiquette being practised by

teachers to promote effective interaction between teacher to pupils and teacher to teacher.
In the context of language teaching, it is believed to enhance learning by providing a lively
and friendly atmosphere in classroom (Jiang, 2010)
 VERBAL POLITENESS

• Teachers must exhibit courteous behaviour through his words and the ability to communicate
using language rules and control his behaviour.
• Code of language should correspond to the cultural elements that are in the community.
• If the procedure is not appropriate to speak cultural norms, then the situation would invite a
negative value.

1. Utter honest and sincere words

For example: Saying thank you with sincerity.

2. Avoid using rising intonation that reflects pride and anger that unable be controlled.

3. Avoid using social, racial & physical remarks when addressing pupils

For example: Cina, Sepet, Pendek, Gemuk, Hitam,

4. Do not interrupt people talking.

5. Use appropriate honorifics when addressing others (Example: Pakcik, Makcik, Abang)
 NON-VERBAL POLITENESS

• Teachers must exhibit courteous behaviour through his actions and behaviours.
• Non verbal politeness involve style of dress, how to sit, how to interact with others (smiling,
saying hello, greetings).

1. The style of dress for the people of Malaysia are associated with the Malaysian culture is
related to cultural and religious beliefs.
Teacher should not wear tight or too revealing clothes which is contrary to the religious
beliefs and may affect pupils’ concentration.
Inappropriate dressing by a teacher will tarnish the image of teachers’ professionalism.
2. A teacher should not get mad at pupils in public because pupils would not be able to be
educated with the behaviour of teacher who are not courteous.
For example: Teacher should avoid public shaming such as carrying out punishment in front of
other pupils which may cause psychological damage to the pupils.
 NON-VERBAL POLITENESS

3.Valuing and respecting others even among the younger, disabled, poor and less intelligent.
A teacher should not discriminate pupils based on their socio economic status and
background.
For example: A teacher must not practise favouritism as pupils will lose trust and respect for
the teacher.
4. Maintain eye contact with the person you are interacting with.