Language
What is language?
A system of vocal sounds and/or nonverbal systems which enable a community to speak to each other.
What is Bilingualism
The ability to speak 2 languages.
What is ethnocentrism?
The belief that one's culture or ethnicity is superior to another's.
How does language influence identity?
People who share the same language often share similar beliefs, feelings, and behaviors.
What is the example of a non-standard dialect the textbook provided?
AAVE (African American Vernacular English)
Why do some bilingual children become monolingual?
They begin favoring the dominant language and lose some of their native language skills.
The English Only Movement.
What is it called when individuals change their dialects to match their environment?
Code-switching.
What are colloquialisms?
Informal and/or conversational speech in a community.
What is the difference between additive and subtractive bilingualism?
Subtractive bilingualism replaces the first language and additive bilingualism does not damage the first language's fluency.
Who determines what standard English is?
Institutions or individuals with power and status determine what is classified as standard English?
Yes, language has very clear connections to cultural/societal expectations. Language relating to time can show a region's expectations on punctuality.
What age do children learn the syntax of their native language?
5 years old.
What are the cognitive benefits of bilingualism?
Bilingual individuals are better at multitasking, prioritizing information, and are less predisposed to develop Alzheimer's.
Why are immigrant families encouraged to give up their native language when moving to the US?
In hopes that they will "Americanize" themselves and assimilate with the dominant language and culture.
How does language change?
Language is always changing. It is influenced by the different cultures, generations, and values of the people using it.
What 4 factors influence a person's language.
1. Ethnicity
2. Location
3. Gender
4. Social class
What percent of ELL students are NOT Spanish speaking?
20-30%
What was the primary belief of the English Only Movement?
English is and should be the dominant language of the US. By having students prioritize learning English, they will better assimilate and there will be less conflict between different ethnic, religious, and linguistic groups.
What are 4 examples of co-cultures.
1. LGBT people
2. Sporting communities
3. Gang members
4. Prisoners
5. Prostitutes