Bestgen, Y., & Vonk, W. (1995). The role of temporal segmentation markers in discourse processing. Discourse Processes, 19(3), 385-406.

Bestgen,Y.; Vonk, W.

1995

Bestgen, Y., & Vonk, W. (1995). The role of temporal segmentation markers in discourse processing. Discourse Processes, 19(3), 385-406.

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Recent studies have shown that temporal expressions like "around 2 o'clock" and "then" are used by speakers and writers to signal thematic shift and that "and" signals continuity in narratives. The role of these markers was investigated by measuring the availability of words from the preceding text. Results from 3 experiments suggest that temporal markers modify the availability of preceding words. Segmentation markers like around 2 o'clock and then reduce this availability, whereas continuity markers like and improve this availability. Results are compatible with the hypothesis that segmentation markers lead readers not to integrate new information with preceding information, but to put the new information into a separate structure.

This experiment confirmed our hypothesis: the presence of a temporal segmentation marker reduces the accessibility of preceding information. Markers that are used by speakers and writers to indicate a high degree of discontinuity result in the most reduction in accessibility, while markers that are used to signal a high degree of continuity result in the most accessibility.

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