Language in Social Context

1. Language in Social Context By: Julie Wethy

2. Phenomenon • Language varies according to the social community • Language also expresses group identity, insiders from outsiders, the cool from pathetically unhip, and friend from foe. • Language is suited to small group interest and experiences such as families, couples, friends, roommates, and co-workers • Larger social groups are often labeled with a social dialect based upon social class, ethnic factors, gender and age.

3. Ebonics Emerges • African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) is often known as Black English • Ebonics is used by African Americans in the work place and inner cities • Many people look down upon Ebonics while others see it as a proud and positive symbol • Anyone can pick up a new lingo if exposed to it long enough

4. Gender Wars • Gender roles influence linguistic behaviors more than gender • In 1970, the U.S. Department of Labor eliminated gender bias from their job title list • “Ms” is a feminine alternative is “Miss” • Pronounced “Miz” • May indicate widowed or divorced • “Guy” is normally masculine but “guys” has become gender neutral referring to all feminine group

5. The “American” Language • Language either unites or divides people • The United States was founded upon diversity and difference • Diversity has given way to the American language which is English • Language loss is common for immigrants to the United States • There is a lack of teachers teaching “how” to speak English for ESL students • English is spoken by more than 90% of Americans

6. Literacy Scare • A report in the 1990’s indicates that less than 50% of Americans could read • In the midst of literacy crisis, politicians legislate more standardized testing • Too much time is spent on test-taking strategies and too little time on actual literacy practices • No test can address the amount to time spent on literacy activities and practices