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Journal : JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE

ADDRESS SYSTEMS AND POLITENESS STRATEGIES IN BATU BARA MALAY SOCIAL INTERACTION Efrizah, Doni; Puspita, Clara; Ali, Nurbaiti
JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE Vol 7, No 1: May 2025
Publisher : Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30743/jol.v7i1.11156

Abstract

Language is more than a communication tool; it embodies cultural identity, social hierarchy, and shared values. In the Batu Bara Malay community, address systems function as structured linguistic expressions of age, rank, kinship, and familiarity, with respect and politeness being integral to interpersonal interactions—especially in addressing elders or individuals of higher status. However, the advent of globalization and social media has introduced new modes of communication among the younger generation, creating tension between traditional norms and emerging language practices. This study investigates the address systems and politeness strategies in the Batu Bara Malay community, focusing on how these are used and transformed in social interaction. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach and linguistic ethnography, data were gathered through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation involving native speakers across varying ages and social strata. The findings highlight the complex variety of address terms and politeness strategies that reflect deep-rooted cultural values and social order. Despite generational shifts, the community continues to uphold linguistic traditions as a means of preserving cultural identity and maintaining social cohesion.
ENGLISH SPEAKING BARRIERS IN VOCATIONAL EDUCATION: A STUDY OF SMK SPP SNAKMA STUDENTS Efrizah, Doni; Fadly, Yossy; Putri, Vivi Oxana
JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE Vol 6, No 2: November 2024
Publisher : Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30743/jol.v6i2.10076

Abstract

The English-speaking skills of students at SMK SPP SNAKMA remain underdeveloped due to specific challenges in using the language within a vocational context. This study explores and analyzes these barriers to understand the underlying factors that hinder effective English communication among vocational students. Employing a qualitative approach, the research gathers data through interviews, observations, and questionnaires to capture students’ perspectives and real-time experiences with English language use. Findings reveal four primary obstacles: limited vocabulary, grammatical difficulties, speaking anxiety, and insufficient practice opportunities. These factors collectively impact students’ confidence and fluency in speaking English, which is critical in vocational settings where practical language skills are increasingly required. The study suggests that a more communicative teaching approach, combined with structured and frequent speaking practice, could significantly address these challenges. By focusing on interactive and supportive teaching methods, educators can create an environment that encourages active language use, helping students overcome barriers and develop essential English-speaking skills for their careers.
Unveiling Interpersonal Depth: Social Penetration and Friendship Types in Nat Gould’s Fast as the Wind Faulandi, Yussuf; Pawiro, Muhammad Ali; Ali, Nurbaiti; Efrizah, Doni
JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE Vol 8, No 1: May 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30743/jol.v8i1.13289

Abstract

Interpersonal relationships and friendship are central themes in literary works, yet they are rarely examined through communication theories such as Social Penetration Theory. This study addresses the limited application of communication theories in literary analysis by examining interpersonal relationships in Fast as the Wind by Nat Gould. It highlights the contribution of integrating communication theory into literary studies, particularly in understanding character interaction and relational development. A qualitative descriptive method is employed using content analysis of dialogues and narrative elements that reflect communication patterns and self-disclosure. The analysis reveals that social penetration occurs through four stages: orientation, exploratory affective exchange, affective exchange, and stable exchange, indicating a progression from superficial interaction to deeper emotional intimacy. Three types of friendship are identified: reciprocal, receptive, and associative, with reciprocal friendship as the most dominant. The results further show that trust, self-disclosure, and social context play significant roles in shaping interpersonal depth and relational dynamics among characters. The horse racing setting not only creates competition but also fosters cooperation and strong interpersonal bonds. These findings reinforce the relevance of communication theories in literary analysis and expand their applicability in interpreting interpersonal dynamics in fictional narratives.
Disability and Structural Injustice in Miracle in Cell No. 7: A Critical Disability Analysis Efrizah, Doni; Pebriani, Dela; Puspita, Clara; Purwarno, Purwarno
JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE Vol 8, No 1: May 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30743/jol.v8i1.13273

Abstract

This study examines how intellectual disability and structural injustice are constructed in Miracle in Cell No. 7, directed by Hanung Bramantyo. It aims to analyze the discursive construction of disability and the reproduction of structural discrimination within legal and social contexts. Using a qualitative research design with a critical discourse analysis approach, this study applies Critical Disability Theory to interpret selected dialogues and key scenes that reflect power relations and institutional practices within the narrative. The findings reveal that intellectual disability is constructed as deviance within legal discourse, leading to discursive marginalization and the denial of agency. Discrimination operates structurally through institutional mechanisms such as coercive interrogation, lack of accommodation, and biased legal procedures within the criminal justice system. At the social level, stigma and dominant cultural narratives construct disability as a marker of danger and incompetence, reinforcing exclusion and legitimizing injustice. The novelty of this study lies in highlighting how cinematic narratives reproduce institutionalized ableism across both legal and social domains. It contributes to Critical Disability Studies by emphasizing discrimination as a multidimensional and structurally embedded phenomenon shaped by power relations. Practically, the study underscores the need for disability-inclusive legal frameworks and increased social awareness to promote justice, equality, and dignity for persons with disabilities.
A Structuralist Analysis of Binary Oppositions in Bella Swan’s Characterization in The Twilight Saga: New Moon Rayati, Nabila; Ezir, Ely; Br. Perangin Angin, Sempa; Efrizah, Doni
JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE Vol 8, No 1: May 2026
Publisher : Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30743/jol.v8i1.13277

Abstract

This study examines the characterization of Bella Swan as the protagonist in The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009) through Lévi-Strauss’s structuralist theory, particularly the concept of binary opposition. By focusing on narrative and symbolic contrasts, the analysis explores how meaning is constructed within the protagonist’s development. A qualitative descriptive method is applied through the analysis of selected scenes and dialogues from the film. The findings indicate that Bella Swan’s characterization is shaped by dominant binary oppositions, including love versus loss, courage versus fear, humanity versus the supernatural, and Edward versus Jacob. These oppositions position her as a structural protagonist who embodies emotional and ideological tensions within the narrative. She also functions as a mediating figure between conflicting value systems, reflecting the dynamic and relational nature of identity construction in cinematic texts. Unlike previous studies that emphasize romantic themes or surface-level character analysis, this research highlights the underlying structural system that actively constructs the protagonist’s identity. The findings contribute to literary and film studies by demonstrating how meaning in film can be systematically interpreted through Lévi-Straussian structuralism.