1. Bài soạn "Các phương châm hội thoại" (tiết 2) số 4

2. Lesson on "Maxims of Conversation" (Part 2), Number 5
- In communication, it's important to stay on topic and avoid going off track (Maxim of Relation).
- When communicating, focus on speaking clearly and concisely, avoiding vague expressions (Maxim of Manner).
- In communication, one should be polite and respectful towards others (Maxim of Politeness).
B. EXERCISES AND SOLUTIONS
Question 1 (Page 23 – Textbook) In the treasure trove of Vietnamese proverbs and folk songs, there are many sayings such as:
a. A greeting is worth more than a full feast
b. Words cost nothing, but...
Choose your words to make everyone happy.
c. Gold is valuable but not shaped by words
Wise people avoid harsh words.
What do these folk sayings teach us? Find additional proverbs or folk songs with similar meanings.
Answer:
These proverbs emphasize the importance of language in life and advise that when communicating, one should be polite, courteous, and respectful. People should think carefully and choose their words wisely before speaking. Here are some more proverbs with similar messages:
The clever bird sings sweetly
The wise speak softly and kindly.
The refined person speaks with grace.
Gold is tested by fire, just as...
The good person speaks wisely.
Even if you don't get the meat or rice,
At least you get words that make everyone happy.
A word of patience saves nine others...
Question 2 (Page 23 – Textbook) Which rhetorical device you've learned (comparison, metaphor, personification, metonymy, repetition, hyperbole, euphemism) is most closely related to the Maxim of Politeness? Provide examples.
Answer:
The rhetorical device most closely related to the Maxim of Politeness is euphemism.
For example:
“You are very charming and kind” instead of “You are terrible”
“You need to try harder next time” instead of “You did terribly”
Question 3 (Page 23 – Textbook) Choose the appropriate words to complete the sentences: a. Saying something softly but actually criticizing is... b. Saying something before others have the chance to speak is... c. Saying something to mock or hurt others intentionally is... d. Interrupting a superior without being asked is... e. Speaking clearly and coherently is called... What do these expressions relate to in terms of the Maxim of Conversation?
Answer:
Fill in the blanks:
a. Saying something softly but actually criticizing is called saying something with a hidden meaning (sarcasm).
b. Saying something before others have the chance to speak is called interrupting.
c. Saying something to mock or hurt others intentionally is called mocking.
d. Interrupting a superior without being asked is called speaking out of turn.
e. Speaking clearly and coherently is called speaking directly and properly.
These expressions reflect violations of the Maxim of Politeness and Maxim of Manner.
Question 4 (Page 23 – Textbook) Why do speakers sometimes use expressions like these:
a. “By the way, may I ask?”
b. “I really hate to say this, I hope you can forgive me, I know it will upset you, but…”
c. “Don’t interrupt me, don’t speak to me like that…”
Answer:
Sometimes speakers use these expressions because:
a. The phrase “By the way, may I ask?” is used when a speaker is about to ask something unrelated to the current conversation. This ensures they don't violate the Maxim of Relation by staying on topic.
b. The phrases “I really hate to say this, I hope you can forgive me…” are used when a speaker anticipates that their words might offend the listener, and they wish to soften the impact. This respects the Maxim of Politeness.
c. The phrase “Don’t interrupt me, don’t speak to me like that…” signals a violation of the Maxim of Politeness, reminding the listener to respect the conversation rules and tone.
Question 5 (Page 24 – Textbook) Explain the meanings of the following idioms and the Maxim of Conversation they relate to: speak harshly, speak bluntly, say something heavy and then lighten it, speak ambiguously, talk excessively, change the subject, speak clumsily.
Answer:
Speak harshly: to speak in an abrasive or insulting way (related to the Maxim of Politeness).
Speak bluntly: to speak in a direct and possibly rude manner (related to the Maxim of Politeness).
Say something heavy and then lighten it: to express criticism and then soften it (related to the Maxim of Politeness).
Speak ambiguously: to be unclear or vague in communication (related to the Maxim of Manner).
Talk excessively: to speak too much, overwhelming the conversation (related to the Maxim of Politeness).
Change the subject: to avoid a topic or steer the conversation elsewhere (related to the Maxim of Relation).
Speak clumsily: to speak awkwardly, lacking grace or tact (related to the Maxim of Politeness).

3. Lesson on "Conversation Maxims" (Part 2) No. 6
I. Maxim of Relation
Question from page 21, Textbook 9, Volume 1
- In Vietnamese, there is a saying: "He talks about chickens, she talks about ducks." This idiom describes a situation in a conversation where participants speak about different topics. In other words, it refers to going off-topic in communication.
- If such a situation arises, the conversation becomes meaningless because the speakers will not be able to communicate effectively, and no useful result will be achieved.
- The lesson: In communication, it is important to stay on topic and avoid going off-track.
II. Maxim of Manner
Question 1 from page 21, Textbook 9, Volume 1
- In Vietnamese, there are idioms such as: "Like tangled vines" or "Mumbling like holding a seed in the mouth," used to describe vague, unclear speech.
- These kinds of expressions disrupt the flow of the conversation, making it difficult for the listener to understand, and the effectiveness of communication is significantly reduced.
- The lesson: In communication, one should speak briefly, clearly, and avoid using vague or ambiguous expressions.
Question 2 from page 22, Textbook 9, Volume 1
This sentence can be understood in two ways:
- Option 1: The speaker agrees with the critic's (or someone's) opinion about the short story.
- Option 2: The speaker agrees with the author's (or his own) opinion about the short story.
To avoid confusion, the speaker should clarify the meaning by adding or rearranging words.
- Option 1: I agree with his insightful observations about the short story.
- Option 2: I agree with his commentary on the short story that he just wrote.
III. Maxim of Politeness
Question from page 22, Textbook 9, Volume 1
In the story of the Beggar, both the beggar and the boy felt they had received something from each other because:
- Although neither of them received material wealth, both sensed the kindness the other had shown.
- The beggar received the boy's sincere, warm-hearted affection.
- The boy gained not only love but also a lesson on how to behave and treat others.
- The lesson: In communication, it is important to be subtle and respectful toward others, regardless of their situation or status.
IV. Exercise on Conversation Maxims (continued)
Question 1 from page 23, Textbook 9, Volume 1
These folk sayings teach us that in communication, we should use polite, courteous language:
- “A wise bird sings sweetly,
- A wise person speaks gently and clearly.”
- “Gold is tested by fire,
- Bells ring clearly when struck, and a good person speaks wisely.”
- “Good soil grows delicate plants,
- And refined people speak softly.”
- “A refined person’s words are like a bell,
- Clear and pleasant to hear.”
Question 2 from page 23, Textbook 9, Volume 1
The rhetorical device most related to the Maxim of Politeness is: euphemism.
Example: When someone passes away, people often avoid using the word "died" and instead use gentler terms like "passed away," "departed," or "gone to rest."
Question 3 from page 23, Textbook 9, Volume 1
Choose the appropriate words to fill in the blanks:
a) Saying something in a sarcastic manner
b) Speaking out of turn
c) Speaking in a mocking tone
d) Interrupting others
e) Speaking clearly and directly.
These expressions all relate to the Maxim of Politeness and Maxim of Manner.
Question 4 from page 23, Textbook 9, Volume 1
Explain why certain phrases are used:
a) "By the way, may I ask?" This is used when the speaker wants to ask a question unrelated to the current conversation but still maintains the Maxim of Relation.
b) Phrases like "I really hate to say this, but..." are used to soften the impact of potentially offensive remarks, adhering to the Maxim of Politeness.
c) Phrases like "Don’t interrupt me, don’t speak like that..." are used to signal a breach of the Maxim of Politeness, signaling the need to cease such behavior.
Question 5 from page 24, Textbook 9, Volume 1
Explain the meanings of these idioms:
- Speak harshly: To speak in a blunt, rude manner (related to the Maxim of Politeness).
- Speak loudly: To speak in a way that contradicts others, making it hard to listen (related to the Maxim of Politeness).
- Heavy words, light tone: To speak with criticism or blame (related to the Maxim of Politeness).
- Ambiguous speech: Speaking unclearly, leaving ideas incomplete (related to the Maxim of Manner).
- Talk too much: To speak excessively, overpowering the conversation (related to the Maxim of Politeness).
- Change the subject: To avoid a topic or refuse to engage with a specific issue (related to the Maxim of Relation).
- Speak clumsily: To speak awkwardly, lacking tact and grace (related to the Maxim of Politeness).

4. Lesson on "Conversation Maxims" (Part 2) No. 1
Part I: MAXIM OF RELATIONSHIP
Answer the question (page 21, Literature 9, volume 1)
- The idiom 'he says chicken, she says duck' refers to a conversation where each person speaks differently, without aligning or understanding each other.
- In communication, it's important to stay on topic, avoiding irrelevant comments.
Part II: MAXIM OF MANNER
Answer question 1 (page 21, Literature 9, volume 1)
- The idiom 'like tangled vines, like mumbling with a seed in one's mouth' refers to long-winded, redundant speech or hesitating, unclear speech.
- Such speech can make it difficult for the listener to understand or absorb the message. Therefore, in communication, it's important to speak concisely and clearly.
Answer question 2 (page 22, Literature 9, volume 1)
- The sentence can be understood in two ways, depending on whether the phrase 'of his' modifies the statement or the short story. If 'of his' modifies the statement, the sentence can mean: 'I agree with his opinions about the short story.'
- If 'of his' modifies the short story, the sentence can mean: 'I agree with the opinions of someone else about his (the author’s) short story.'
⟹ In communication, it’s important to follow the maxim of manner and avoid vague statements.
Part III: MAXIM OF POLITENESS
Text: 'The Beggar'
Why do both the old beggar and the boy in the story feel they received something from each other?
Answer the question (page 22, Literature 9, volume 1)
- Although both have no wealth or possessions, they each feel the affection the other has shown, especially the boy's compassion towards the beggar. Despite the beggar's poor state (old age, red eyes, tear-streaked face, tattered clothes), the boy doesn’t show any disdain or avoid him but instead treats him with sincerity and respect.
- The lesson is clear: In communication, no matter the social status or circumstances, we should always communicate with respect and politeness. We shouldn’t use disrespectful language just because someone seems lower in status.
Part IV: PRACTICE
Answer question 1 (page 23, Literature 9, volume 1):
What do the proverbs and folk songs suggest? Find additional proverbs and folk songs with similar meanings.
Detailed answer:
- Through the proverbs and folk songs (exercise 1), our ancestors taught us that in communication, we should use polite and gentle words.
- Additional proverbs and folk songs with similar meanings include:
'A wise bird sings sweetly'
'A wise person speaks kindly and softly.'
'Even if there’s no meat or rice,
Words can comfort the heart.'
'A word can weigh more than a heap of rice.'
'A kind word is like gold.'
Answer question 2 (page 23, Literature 9, volume 1):
Which rhetorical devices we've learned (comparison, metaphor, personification, metonymy, repetition, euphemism) are directly related to the maxim of politeness? Provide examples.
Detailed answer:
- The rhetorical device related to the maxim of politeness is euphemism.
- Examples:
+ 'You haven't been studying very much.'
+ 'Has the doctor left already, oh Doctor!'
+ 'Mr. Dương has passed away.'
'The clouds seem to gently weep for us.'
Answer question 3 (page 23, Literature 9, volume 1):
Fill in the blanks with the correct terms:
Detailed answer:
a) Speaking softly like praise, but actually mocking or scolding is 'speaking sarcastically.'
b) Speaking before someone else has a chance to speak is 'interrupting.'
c) Speaking to intentionally criticize or make fun of others is 'sniping.'
d) Speaking in someone else's business when not asked is 'butting in.'
e) Speaking clearly and with full details is 'speaking directly.'
All these expressions relate to the maxim of politeness.
Answer question 4 (page 23, Literature 9, volume 1):
Sometimes, people must use expressions like:
Detailed answer:
a) 'By the way, I’d like to ask...': used when the speaker is about to bring up a topic unrelated to the ongoing conversation. This follows the maxim of relevance, preventing others from criticizing irrelevant speech in communication.
b) 'I’m sorry if I upset you, but I must speak honestly...': used when the speaker might say something uncomfortable for the listener. This shows the speaker is following the maxim of politeness, ensuring they do not offend the listener unnecessarily.
c) 'Don’t interrupt, don’t speak to me like that': used when the speaker needs to address another person who is not adhering to the maxim of politeness. This is used to stop improper communication.
Answer question 5 (page 24, Literature 9, volume 1):
Explain the meaning of the idioms and their related maxims of communication.
Detailed answer:
- 'Talking loudly and harshly': speaking in a rude, disrespectful manner (maxim of politeness).
- 'Saying something unbearable': speaking in a harsh or unpleasant tone (maxim of politeness).
- 'A soft word, a gentle tone': saying something reproachfully (maxim of politeness).
- 'Half-spoken, half-hidden': speaking ambiguously or incompletely (maxim of manner).
- 'Talking too much': speaking excessively, overbearing (maxim of politeness).
- 'Changing the subject': diverting attention to another issue (maxim of relevance).
- 'Talking awkwardly': speaking without tact, without delicacy (maxim of politeness).

5. Lesson Plan: 'Conversation Maxims' (Part 2) No. 2
I. Maxim of Relation
(Page 21 of Literature Textbook, Grade 9, Volume 1):
- The idiom 'he speaks of chicken, she speaks of duck' describes a conversation where each person discusses a different topic, and neither understands the other.
- Communication lesson: When conversing, ensure you stay on topic to avoid confusion.
II. Maxim of Manner
Question 1 (Page 21 of Literature Textbook, Grade 9, Volume 1):
- The idioms 'a tangled mess' and 'mumbling like holding a seed in the mouth' refer to speech that is long-winded, disorganized, and unclear. Such communication makes it difficult for the listener to follow.
- Communication lesson: Speak concisely and clearly, avoiding ambiguity.
Question 2 (Page 21 of Literature Textbook, Grade 9, Volume 1):
- Two interpretations of a sentence with added words for clarification:
+ 'He' refers to the author → I agree with his comments about the story he wrote.
+ 'He' refers to the literary critic → I agree with his comments on the short story.
- In communication, avoid unclear or vague speech to prevent misunderstandings.
III. Maxim of Politeness
(Page 22 of Literature Textbook, Grade 9, Volume 1):
- Both the beggar and the boy felt that they had received something from the other through mutual sympathy and sharing. They earned each other's respect.
- Communication lesson: In conversations, be tactful and show respect for others.
Practice Exercises
Question 1 (Page 23 of Literature Textbook, Grade 9, Volume 1):
Proverbs offer advice on:
a. Respect and politeness are more valuable than material possessions.
b. Speaking politely is cost-free and yields good results.
c. Educated and knowledgeable individuals should avoid saying hurtful words.
- Additional proverbs:
- Gold is tested in fire, just as a bell's tone reveals its quality.
- Even if you don’t have meat or rice, kind words can soothe the heart.
- A wise bird sings sweetly, just as a wise person speaks gently and pleasantly.
Question 2 (Page 23 of Literature Textbook, Grade 9, Volume 1):
- Figures of speech related to the maxim of politeness: Euphemisms.
- Example: When describing someone with poor appearance, we should say, 'She’s not very beautiful.'
Question 3 (Page 23 of Literature Textbook, Grade 9, Volume 1):
Explanation of expressions:
a. Speaking out of context.
b. Politely apologizing before saying something sensitive.
c. Reminding someone to be respectful.
Question 4 (Page 24 of Literature Textbook, Grade 9, Volume 1):
Explain the idioms and identify the associated conversation maxims:
(1) Speaking loudly and coarsely: Speaking too much, rudely and harshly.
(2) Speaking loudly and causing discomfort: Speaking in a way that’s aggressive and unpleasant to others.
(3) Heavy-handed speech: Reproaching or scolding.
(4) Ambiguous speech: Speaking in a vague, unclear manner.
(5) Speaking incessantly: Trying to dominate the conversation by speaking too much.
(6) Changing the subject: Avoiding the current topic by introducing an unrelated one.
(7) Speaking in a harsh tone: Speaking in an abrasive, unpleasant manner.
- Relevant maxims:
+ Maxim of Politeness: (1), (2), (3), (5), (7)
+ Maxim of Manner: (4)
+ Maxim of Relation: (6)

6. Lesson Plan on "Conversation Maxims" (Part 2) - Number 3
I. Maxim of Relevance
The idiom "The rooster talks about the chicken, the duck talks about the hen" refers to the confusion that arises when two people fail to understand each other, leading to miscommunication in a conversation.
- To avoid this issue, participants in a dialogue should stay on topic and discuss the subject that concerns them.
- This principle is known as the Maxim of Relevance in communication.
II. Maxim of Manner
a, - Speaking in a rambling, disorganized manner – the conversation loses focus and becomes tedious.
- Stuttering or speaking unclearly – the message is unclear and difficult for the listener to follow.
- Such communication fails to achieve its intended purpose and complicates understanding.
→ Therefore, one should aim to be concise, clear, and direct in conversation.
b, An example is the sentence: "I agree with his remarks about the short story."
- The phrase "his remarks" is ambiguous; it could mean his opinion on the short story or his comments about the short story he wrote.
- To avoid confusion, one should clarify the sentence with additional words for clarity.
Examples:
+ I agree with his thoughts on the short story he just wrote.
+ I agree with his insightful analysis of the short story.
→ In communication, one should avoid vague expressions that could lead to misunderstandings.
III. Maxim of Politeness
a, In the story "The Beggar", both the beggar and the boy feel that they received something valuable from each other.
- The beggar doesn't feel demeaned or rejected even though nothing is given to him.
- Both characters feel respected and appreciated, and both leave the encounter feeling content.
b, The moral of this story is that in communication, one should be tactful and respectful towards others.
IV. Practice
Question 1 (Page 23, 9th Grade Vietnamese Literature Textbook)
a, The proverb emphasizes the importance of politeness and the value of courteous behavior over material wealth.
b, Polite and refined speech leads to greater effectiveness in communication.
c, Precious things (like gold) should not be treated like trivial items (such as a fishing hook). This suggests that courteous individuals should communicate in a manner that reflects their worth.
→ In summary, the proverbs encourage respectful and polite communication.
- Some other proverbs with similar meanings:
- A wise bird sings sweetly.
Smart people speak kindly.
- Gold is tested by fire, a bell by its sound, and a person by their words.
Question 2 (Page 23, 9th Grade Vietnamese Literature Textbook)
The following strategies are directly related to the Maxim of Politeness in conversation: using euphemisms or indirect expressions.
Question 3 (Page 23, 9th Grade Vietnamese Literature Textbook)
a, Speaking in a harsh manner.
b, Speaking impulsively.
c, Speaking indirectly.
d, Interrupting the speaker.
e, Being vague or unclear.
All these terms describe behaviors related to the Maxim of Politeness and Maxim of Manner in communication.
Question 4 (Page 23, 9th Grade Vietnamese Literature Textbook)
a, Asking a question unrelated to the current topic can cause the listener to believe that the speaker is not adhering to the Maxim of Relevance.
b, Using phrases such as "I must say this, I hope you will forgive me, I know you may not like this, but…" can help reduce tension and adhere to the Maxim of Politeness.
c, Phrases like "Don't interrupt me, don't speak in that tone, don't say that to me…" signal that the speaker is not following the Maxim of Politeness.
Question 5 (Page 24, 9th Grade Vietnamese Literature Textbook)
- Explanation of idioms:
+ Speaking bluntly: speaking in a rude, sharp manner.
+ Speaking harshly: expressing something that offends or disagrees with the listener.
+ Heavy words, light tones: expressing criticisms or reprimands.
+ Speaking vaguely: using unclear or incomplete expressions.
+ Talking endlessly: dominating the conversation, speaking over others.
+ Changing the subject: avoiding a particular topic being discussed.
- The corresponding conversation maxims:
+ Maxim of Politeness: speaking bluntly, speaking harshly, heavy words, light tones, excessive talking.
+ Maxim of Manner: speaking vaguely.
+ Maxim of Relevance: changing the subject.

