SPEECH FUNCTIONS IN JUST ALVIN TALK SHOW PROGRAM

Interpersonal function of language is the use of language to interact, establish, negotiate, and maintain relationship. The choice of speech functions and the mood realization are part of the interpersonal functions which can influence the interpersonal relationship between the speakers in a conversation. The objectives of this study are (1) to describe speech functions in the conversation between the host and the guests in Just Alvin talk show, (2) to analyze how the speech functions are realized in the conversation between the host and the guests in Just Alvin talk show, and (3) to elaborate the reasons for the occurrence of speech functions in the conversation between the host and the guests in Just Alvin talk show. The research applies qualitative content analysis method. The sources of data are the host and the guests in Just Alvin talk show program on Metro TV. The data of the study are conversation utterances of the host and the guests in Just Alvin Talk Show. There are four episodes with different topics that will be chosen, the first two are about sensitive topics: (1) drugs, (2) divorce, and the rests are about non-sensitive topics (3) achievement, (4) marriage. The research findings show that the speech functions in the host’s utterances in all topics are statement, question, acknowledgement, command, answer, and contradiction, where statement which realized in tagged declarative mood occurs most dominantly. This indicates that the host has already known the information about his guests, however his stating the information in tagged declarative mood indicates the host’s attempt to invite the guests to be involved into the conversation by giving agreement or confirmation to the his statements. Speech functions in the guests’ utterances in all topics are statement, acknowledgement, answer, question, command, compliance, disclaimer, and contradiction, where statement realized in declarative mood occurs most dominantly. This indicates that the guests give the information and explanation and that means that the guests play role as the informants in the talk show.