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Chapter 7. Language. Hayley Bunnell Jenna Hagerty Lauren Lubitz. What is language?. Language. By definition, language is a system of vocal sounds and/or nonverbal systems by which group members communicate with one another (i.e. French, English, and Spanish).
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Chapter 7 Language Hayley Bunnell Jenna Hagerty Lauren Lubitz
Language • By definition, language is a system of vocal sounds and/or nonverbal systems by which group members communicate with one another (i.e. French, English, and Spanish). • Language provides a common bond for individuals with the same linguistic heritage. It can also play a key role in providing a national sense of identity. • There are many forms of language whether it be spoken language or non-verbal language like sign language.
Language Differences • There are literally thousands of languages that are known in the world today. • The greater the difference between groups, the greater the tendency towards language differences. • Some difference in language include: • Bilingualism • Accents • Dialects (Regional, and social) • Grammatical differences, (different way of spelling certain words, that have the same meaning). • Bidialectcalism- the ability to speak two or more dialects. • Sign language- People who are deaf use this to communicate.
Dialects • Dialects are provincial, rural, or socially distinct variety of language that differ from the standard language, especially when considered as a substandard. • Dialects are usually determined by region or social class. • Spoken language and dialects can even be different from school to school. • Nonstandard dialect: the same language but a different pronunciation from what is considered standard. • An example of this would be “Black English”/“Ebonics” which is a dialect of the majority of Black Americans, though not all.
Language and culture • Language is culturally determined and often defines who the person is in many ways. • Language, together with dialect, is usually related to one’s ethnic, geographic, gender, or class origins.
Language and Culture Awareness Activity • On the handout given, see if you can identify for each word or phrase the language, a culture or two in which it is used, and what the word or phrase is. • See if you can figure it out individually first, and then compare and help each other in your small groups.
Nonverbal Communication • Nonverbal communication can be just as important in the total communication process. • How we appear to others is a form of nonverbal communication and can, therefore, be considered as a part of our communication or language. • Cultural differences can have profound implications on how individuals interact nonverbally.
Sign Language • American Sign Language (ASL) has been developed and used by persons who are deaf. • ASL is the only sign language recognized as a language in its own right, rather than a variation of spoken English. It is a scripted form of nonverbal communication. Activity • We’re going to teach you some sign language and play sign language BINGO. Make sure to pay attention, NO TALKING!
Language Diversity in the classroom • All the cultural influences and differences in language lead to an even greater diversity in the classroom. • There are many challenges this diversity creates for teachers and schools, but there are also many tools available that can aid both educators and students. • Understanding these the role of language in instruction allows for success in and out of the classroom.
English language learners • Characteristics of ELL students: • Non-English speakers • Most common ELL languages are Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean, and French but varies by state. • Often at a socioeconomic disadvantage compared to non-ELL peers. • Both foreign and U.S. born (most born in the United States but with 80% of their parents born outside of the country).
Language Acquisition and Proficiency • Most children acquire their first language naturally through constant interaction with their parents or significant others. • Knowledge of their first language plays an important role in the process of acquiring and learning a second language. • Basic interpersonal communicative skills (BICS) are adequate everyday conversational skills, but are inadequate to function in high-level academic situations. • Cognitive academic language proficiency (CALP) is higher level proficiency acquired in highly structured academic settings.
Bilingual Education • Bilingual education is the use of two languages in school – by teachers or students or both – for a variety of social and pedagogical purposes. • Through proper educational programming, however, children with limited English proficiency can receive the education which they are entitled. • It is supported by federal legislation that requires schools to address the linguistic needs of their students from diverse backgrounds but it’s still debated.
Differentiating instruction for all language learners • The ability of U.S. educators to recognize and appreciate the value of different language groups will, to some extent, determine the effectiveness of our education system. • Supporting cultural and linguistic diversity is important in education. • What are some techniques you might use in the classroom to work with students whose foundations are in different languages?
Techniques/Solutions • Whatever the nature of the difference, make sure everyone has a way to contribute and communicate • Use alternative or augmentative communication means, such as pictures, manual signs, or voice output devices. • Understand the differences in nonverbal communications within cultures so that you do not offend anyone.
“Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going.” ‒Rita Mae Brown
