Home⇛Psychology and Education: A Multidisciplinary Journal⇛vol. 41 no. 2 (2025)

An In-Depth Pragmatic Analysis on Letters of Civic Engagements

Mary Joy Makiling | Evelyn Erellana

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

This main purpose of this study was to examine the linguistic elements and underlying meanings within letters of civic engagement. This includes analyzing how individuals and groups use language to advocate for change, influence political discourse, and address societal issues. This study employed a qualitative design utilizing the discourse analysis to which focuses on examining civic engagement letters. As defined by Kaplain (2015), qualitative research, in nature, is systematic and holds a formal process to which it utilizes the data gathered, analysis, interpretation, and representation of data. Thus, this connotes an understanding and elaboration of knowledge, ideas, concepts, and principles and opinion to which scaffolds in setting the hypothesis. The study’s findings highlight the importance of speech acts in shaping discourse, which can be directly applied to teaching writing and rhetoric. For instance, assertive speech acts demonstrate how factual statements and affirmations are used to establish credibility, while directive acts illustrate how requests and commands can influence readers. Teaching students to identify and apply these speech acts in their own writing can enhance their ability to craft persuasive arguments, whether in academic essays, business communication, or civic discourse. It can be concluded that different speech acts play a crucial role in civic engagement letters, shaping how messages are communicated and received. Assertive speech acts help establish credibility and reinforce key points, while directives encourage action and persuade audiences to get involved. Commissive speech acts build trust by making commitments, and expressive acts promotes emotional connections, whether through praise, gratitude, or criticism. Together, these elements demonstrate how language is carefully used to influence public opinion and drive civic participation. Understanding these speech acts gives us valuable insights into how written communication can be a powerful tool for engagement and change.



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