LEARNING TO SAY GRACE

Abstract

Based on a detailed analysis of four naturally occurring dinner-table conversations video-recorded over a period of three weeks, this study uses longitudinal Conversation Analysis to track an outsider's growing involvement in the family ritual of praying before each meal. Through a detailed turn-by-turn account, the analysis demonstrates how the visitor moves from peripheral observation to more active participation, suggesting that his involvement in learning to say grace was one way he adapted his interactional and cultural practices to align with those of the host family. The analysis also considers the role of other family members in inviting participation and reprimanding non-normative behaviour.