the request speech act: a comparison between persian speakers and persian learners

this study compares the amount and type of direct and indirect strategies and peripheral modifications employed by persian speakers and persian language learners in the request speech act, in different contexts (concerning formality, familiarity and importance of the subject of request). a discourse completion test, as well as direct observation, was used as the main instrument for data collection. 80 native persian speakers and 80 persian language learners of two levels in one age group of 20-30 participated in this study. results indicated that there is no significant relation between the importance of the subject of request and formality and the amount of peripheral modifications employed by language learners when requesting. but, depending on the amount of familiarity with the addressee, they use peripheral modifications. however, native persian speakers acted differently depending on the given variables and this indicates that persian language learners are not aware of suitable strategies in different contexts. findings of this research can help us for teaching persian language in this way that educational material and class activities should prepare persian language learners for applying suitable strategies when needed and communicating successfully in different situations.