Narrative Discourse Analysis Self-Instruction Materials

Engaging in the study of a language requires consideration of the factors involved in associating sentences together to create a coherent whole. Language does not consist solely of isolated words or sentences, but rather many sentences are connected into longer stretches of discourse. Narrative, in particular, employs both creative and economic features of the language to maximum effect.

The approach presented in this volume has been used to analyze narratives in more than 500 languages. Topics include preparation and charting of texts for analysis, factors involved in the ordering of constituents within sentences, backgrounding and highlighting devices, connectives, and reporting conversation in narrative participant reference.

This self-instruction course is designed to help those who have completed an initial language learning and analysis phase in a language project, are planning to be involved in a Scripture translation project, or are engaged in the study of a language spoken anywhere in the world. Recommended prerequisites include the completion of a Language Study Skills track of an assignment-related training course, with associated field experience or its equivalent. Students will need an appropriate selection of narrative texts in the language they are studying.

This volume is a companion to "Self-Instruction Materials on Non-Narrative Discourse Analysis," published by SIL International(R) in 2023. Together, these materials provide a comprehensive approach to the study of language, covering both narrative and non-narrative discourse.

The course is structured to guide students through the process of analyzing narratives, starting with the preparation and charting of texts. The factors involved in the ordering of constituents within sentences are explored, as well as the use of backgrounding and highlighting devices, connectives, and the reporting of conversation in narrative participant reference.

By the end of the course, students will have a deeper understanding of the complex and nuanced nature of language, and how narrative discourse can be used to convey meaning and communicate effectively. The skills and knowledge gained will be invaluable for those involved in language projects, Scripture translation, or the study of languages around the world.

Overall, this self-instruction course offers a comprehensive and practical approach to the analysis of narrative discourse, providing students with the tools and techniques they need to engage in the study of language at a deeper level.

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