Functional Sentence Perspective in Written and Spoken Communication. FSP and Intonation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69760/portuni.0104010Keywords:
Functional Sentence Perspective, intonation, communication, theme, rheme, writing, spoken languageAbstract
This article explores Functional Sentence Perspective (FSP), a core concept developed by the Prague School of Linguistics, as a framework for analyzing the organization of information in both written and spoken communication. Emphasis is placed on the distinction between theme and rheme, and how their progression contributes to textual cohesion and coherence. The study examines how FSP operates differently across modalities—while written discourse relies on syntactic structures and punctuation to guide information flow, spoken discourse employs intonation, stress, and rhythm to signal communicative intent. Drawing on the works of Firbas, Mathesius, and Daneš, this paper illustrates thematic progression patterns and the role of communicative dynamism in advancing discourse. Practical implications for language teaching, translation, and discourse analysis are discussed, highlighting how awareness of FSP enhances clarity, emphasis, and coherence in academic and everyday communication.
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