Introduction
Language is one of the most powerful communication tools we have. Like other communication codes it includes a set of signs which need to be combined in a particular order to make sense. In other words, languages contain words, which express meanings and these words need to be combine in a grammatical way obeying certain tules to communicate meaning effectively.
Language and identity are closely linked and we think we can tell a lot about someone by the way they use language.
In this activity you will learn what some of the key terms are, how to apply them to real life situations and how to link the key concepts of identity, value and power.
Task
Key terms
Find definitions and examples of the following
ACCENT
DIALECT
RECEIVED PRONUNCIATION
STANDARD ENGLISH
CONVERGENCE/DIVERGENCE
Process
What is the link between language and identity? What can we tell about someone from the way they talk?
What is the link between language and power? What do we learn about how much power someone has from the way they talk?
Note down your thoughts and discuss with a partner
Evaluation
Use what you have learned from this web quest to answer the following question.
The original radio interview can be heard here (click on the image)
Q4
Read the extract below from the Independent in July 2009 about an interview David Cameron gave on Absolute radio.
Perhaps David Cameron was getting into the holiday spirit a little early as he embarked on a "different type of radio interview".
Or perhaps he was trying too hard to prove his hip credentials when he attempted to spread the Conservative message to Absolute Radio's youth audience. ..
Getting into the spirit of the deliberately unconventional interview, he attempted a vulgar pun when he was asked whether he was a convert to the Twitter website.
He answered that he was not, explaining: "The trouble with Twitter, the instantness of it. Too many twits might make a twat."
The Tory leader lapsed again as he discussed the impact of the expenses scandal on the reputation of MPs. He remarked: "The public are rightly, I think, pissed off - sorry I can't say that in the morning - angry with politicians."
Using this text as a starting point, explore language and context in contemporary culture