Have you ever noticed that you don't speak the same way in all situations? The language you use with your friends is probably very different from the language you use in a job interview or when writing a university essay. This ability to adapt our language is a key part of communication and a central aspect of our identity. In this lesson, we will explore how language choices reflect who we are and how we relate to others. We will examine the different tools we use, consciously or unconsciously, to navigate our social world through words.
Vocabulary: The Language of Language
To discuss how we use language, we need some specific terminology. These words will help you analyze communication on a deeper level, which is a critical skill for the ITEP exam.
| Word | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| register | The level of formality of speech or writing, determined by the context, audience, and purpose. | The email to the professor was written in a formal register, while the text message to a friend was very informal. |
| dialect | A form of a language that is specific to a particular region or social group. This can include differences in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. | The speaker's southern dialect was evident from the way she pronounced certain vowels. |
| slang | Very informal words and expressions that are more common in speech than writing, often used by a specific group of people. | My little brother uses so much gaming slang that I sometimes can't understand what he's talking about. |
| code-switching | The practice of moving between two or more languages or dialects within a single conversation. | As a bilingual speaker, Maria often uses code-switching when talking to her family, mixing English and Spanish in the same sentence. |
| formal | Language used in serious or official situations, characterized by complex sentences, advanced vocabulary, and avoidance of contractions or slang. | A formal academic presentation is required for this course. |
| informal | Language used in relaxed, familiar situations, characterized by simpler sentences, common vocabulary, contractions, and slang. | Let's have an informal chat about our plans for the weekend. |
Video: Our Linguistic Selves
The following video features a university classroom discussion about the connection between language and identity. The students share personal stories about how and why they "code-switch" in their daily lives. As you watch, think about your own linguistic identity.
A Classroom Discussion on Code-Switching
University students discuss how language shapes their identity and experiences.
Listening: Decoding the Dialogue
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