Of Mice and Men

1. Of Mice and Men Looking at Language in

2. Objective: To understand the meaning of ‘Dialect’ and be able to analyse the use of a certain type of language (non-standard English) in Of Mice and Men.

3. Dialect Standard English: This is a dialect which has acquired the status of representing the English language. It is considered the ‘proper’ or ‘correct’ way to speak and use the English language. It is a formal use of language.

4. Dialect Dialect: the language variety of a geographical region or social background. Different forms of grammar affect dialect. The characters in the novel use a non-standard dialect. Their language is not formal.

5. Dialect Accent: the specific way words are pronounced according to geographical region. For example, ‘Geordie’ or ‘Scouse’. Geordie accent Scouse accent

6. Language in the novel: In Of Mice and Men the characters use a non-standard dialect. Steinbeck writes in Standard English in his descriptions, but why does he use non-standard dialects when the characters are speaking? What effect does it have?

7. See if you can pronounce the following phrases in an ‘American’ accent

8. Language in the novel: Read the dialogue on the first two pages (3-4). Can you identify the non-standard dialect? Find two examples.

9. Language in the novel: In your notes, write both the non-standard version from the novel and underneath write your interpretation of the standard way it would be spoken. For example: Non-Standard: ‘You never oughta drink water when it ain’t running, Lennie’ Standard: ‘You should never drink water when it is not running, Lennie’

10. Language in the novel: Look at the handout entitled: Common features of the non-standard American Vernacular dialect Take note of the terms, descriptions and examples of non-standard language used in the text.

11. Activity: Organise yourself into groups of two. Look at the handout provided with different quotations from the text. With your partner, analyse your assigned piece of dialogue and annotate your extract for non-standard dialect features. Make a note of your findings, as you will share them with the class in five minutes.

12. Plenary: What is the definition of ‘Dialect’? What is the effect of non-standard English language in the novel upon the reader?

13. Prep: Finish reading chapter 4 of the novel. Find Five examples of non-standard English within the chapter and explain the effect and significance of this language on the reader.