TEACHER AND STUDENTS’ POLITENESS STRATEGIES IN EFL CLASSROOM INTERACTIONS

Abstract

This research explores the manners in which both teachers and students utilize politeness strategies in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Interactions at SMAN 12 Sinjai. A descriptive qualitative research approach was employed, with data gathered at classroom observation of a 90-minute session from one class of 30 students chosen at random. The results identified three main politeness strategies: positive politeness, negative politeness, and bald-on-record strategies. The interactions were predominantly led by the teacher, with politeness strategies being shaped by factors such as age differences, roles within the institution, power relationships, and social distance. However, this research fills a gap in existing literature by examining a local context, shedding light on the way politeness strategies are used in Indonesian EFL classrooms. The implications of this study indicate that teachers should recognize the importance of politeness strategies to improve communication and create a welcoming learning environment.