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Critical Thinking and Language, 2008.
This paper discusses the role language diversity plays in the critical thinking process.
752 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 3 sources, APA, AU$ 43.95
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Abstract
The paper explains how language diversity is a necessity in the critical thinking process, in expressing thoughts and in implementing the power of persuasion. The paper discusses how language barriers are not as much of a problem as they may appear to be. The paper concludes that it is necessary and important for people to be able to efficiently communicate with one another.
From the Paper
"Critical thinking is defined as the process of solving complex real world problems, and generating multiple (or creative) solutions to the problem (Brighton). When gathering information to form the best possible solution, a number of people might be involved through the process. It is important that the gap be bridged together during this time. When a very foreign accent is presented, most would assume the individual has difficulty in understanding, hearing, or writing the English language (Thiederman). Thiederman's advice is to be optimistic, slow down, and avoid using slang. In these situations most foreigners are able to understand English very well, but have a hard time pronouncing the English language. With this being said, the critical thinking process must not be swayed by the language barrier. Critical thinking can definitely be affected by language, but according to Thiederman is not always as much of a problem as people assume. Language diversity is definitely affected in the critical thinking process, even if it could be eliminated. Not only does language diversity play a role in the critical thinking process, it affects the way in which diverse people express their thoughts."
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Second Language Acquisition, 2005.
An overview of two theories on second language acquisition.
3,392 words (approx. 13.6 pages), 13 sources, APA, AU$ 156.95
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Abstract
With the increase of channels of communications in the twentieth century, the need to acquire one second language or more has grown rapidly. This has opened the way to new linguistic theories concerning second language acquisition. This paper focuses on the contrastive analysis hypothesis, which aims at providing an explanation of errors by exploring the relation between two linguistic systems and more specifically by attempting a comparison between them. It also examines the error analysis hypothesis, which tries to provide researchers with an in-depth knowledge of foreign language deviations. The paper attempts to establish the purposes of these theories and their fundamental aspects, and then describes the criticisms of these theories and discusses their accuracy.
From the Paper
"The Contrastive analysis hypothesis emerged in the 1940's with Charles Fries, one of the leading applied linguists of the day. His idea was that "The most efficient materials are those that are based upon a scientific description of the language to be learned, carefully compared with a parallel description of the native language of the learner."(Fries 1945, as reported in Lanlin Zhang). Robert Lado, Fries' colleague at the University of Michigan, also worked on this idea in his book Linguistics across Cultures which marks the real beginning of modern applied linguistics. In his book, as reported in Lanlin Zhang (2005), he claims that "we can predict and describe the patterns that will cause difficulty in learning, and those that will not cause difficulty, by comparing systematically the language and culture to be learned with the native language and culture of the student". Wardhaugh (1970)(Cf: Lanlin Zhang) later termed this claim as the "Contrastive Analysis Hypothesis" (CAH). "
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Politeness in Speech, 2005.
This paper explores linguistic politeness and how it determines patterns of language use.
3,263 words (approx. 13.1 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 151.95
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Abstract
The paper reveals the linguistic definition of politeness and shows how politeness is an integral part of speech. The paper discusses how the use of politeness is determined by three main sociological factors: distance, power and cultural rate of impositions. Finally, the paper demonstrates how language is transformed by politeness in practice.
From the Paper
"Everyone knows what politeness is. From our very childhood, we are constantly told phrases such as "be polite" and we are faced with the issue of addressing people in a decent way, using either their nicknames, first names or their titles plus last names, etc. and in some foreign languages distinguishing between the formal second person personal pronoun and the familiar one (e.g. tu/vous in French). When our neighbour tells us "beautiful day, isn't it?" it would never occur to us to reply "no, in fact I totally disagree with you. Haven't you seen these clouds? It is undoubtedly going to rain". Why if it is true? It is simply because it is a basic matter of politeness that we are also used to calling good manners. In fact, politeness is really part of our everyday life and speech."
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Standard and Non-Standard Language, 2007.
An analysis of the issues surrounding the use of standard and non-standard language varieties in education.
1,908 words (approx. 7.6 pages), 11 sources, APA, AU$ 98.95
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Abstract
The paper attempts to determine the place of standard and non-standard varieties of English in education. It examines how the study of language attitudes has a long history that has expanded across several decades and social scientific disciplines and how it recognises that language is a powerful social force that does more than convey intended referential information. The paper also looks at how a "standard" English has developed over the years and how it has been dictated by association with the social group with the highest degree of power, wealth and prestige.
From the Paper
"By the 16th century a specific form of English used mainly by the government, and among the most educated, had surfaced and the standardisation of its written form was later encouraged by the development of the printing press. Regional dialects which possessed their own distinctive grammar, vocabulary and accent, continued to be spoken by all classes of society until their rapid decline in the 19th century. The main reason for this decline was related to issues such as geographical mobility, the spread of education, and the mass-readership press. Meanwhile, a standard form of accent, now known as 'received pronunciation' (RP) had emerged and by around 1900 this form, or one very close to it and containing only a few small markers of one's local accent, had come to be widely recognised as the form indicative of 'educatedness' (Honey, 1983)."
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Identify and Assess Learners' Needs, 2007.
This paper studies two individuals and examines their learning needs and styles.
1,657 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 8 sources, APA, AU$ 86.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer analyzes two pupils and looks at their different learning needs. Through a series of questions, the writer looks in depth at the learner's background and learning needs and styles of the respective individuals. The writer notes that when looking at language as a social instrument it is necessary to consider the different social groups and what a person's speech can reveal about their circumstances and individuality and the way that communicative events accomplish their objectives. The writer concludes that assessing learners' styles is central to ensuring individuals may learn quickly and efficiently. The paper is written from a personal point of view.
Outline:
How Information is Gathered, Equal Opportunities and Potential Disabilities
Impact of Literacy and Numeracy on Learners
Methods used to Obtain the Information
What are we trying to achieve?
What do you find easy?
What do you find difficult?
Do you have any learning difficulties that you are aware of?
How the Information is used to Develop the Group's Learning
From the Paper
"There are a number of common misconceptions related to number associated difficulties. Family attitudes and peer group pressure can be negative simply because some see it as socially acceptable to have low numeracy skills. Being that numeracy is also often viewed as difficult or boring; it may be assumed that those with difficulties are simply being lazy or idle."
"Limited number attainment can however, seriously restrict individuals within the community. They may experience difficulties such as telling the time, calculating prices and handling change and estimating and measuring such things as car speeds.Those with limited number attainment may also find it hard to remember telephone numbers or use telephone books for example."
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Franz Kafka's "Jaeger Gracchus", 2005.
This paper translates segments and interprets the original German text of Franz Kafka's "Jaeger Gracchus" ("Texte Zum Jager Gracchus Thema").
1,780 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 93.95
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Abstract
This paper explain that, in deciding how to interpret Franz Kafka's "Texte Zum Jager Gracchus Thema", the most obvious clue appears in the title in word 'Gracchus', which has the same meaning as the Czech word 'Kavka', 'jackdaw'. The author suggests that at least some elements in the Jager Gracchus character are autobiographical. The paper points out that, in the cited quotation in German, that Kafka appears to be expressing his awareness of both the attraction and the dangers of searching his wound, or in other words, scrutinizing himself. The author stresses that, in "Texte Zum Jager Gracchus Thema", Kafka explores the existential concerns of the Jewish people who have lost their link with faith and thus also God. The paper includes many quotations in German.
From the Paper
"The dilemma here is clearly that of Kafka; while he has a job, he is the Burgermeister, responsible for the angst of the Jager Gracchus who is neither living nor dead as a result of the lack of commitment on Burgermeister's part. The Jager Gracchus knows that the Burgermeister cannot remain in Riva, ''Es gibt hier nur zwei ... Du bist auf" He would be taking the wrong turn himself if he pretended that he could remain in this hedonistic, sensual (woman breast feeding baby, people doing normal stuff) paradise of Riva. He can't."
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The Franco-American War on Culture, 2007.
This paper explores cultural imperialism and France's battle against globalization.
3,649 words (approx. 14.6 pages), 15 sources, MLA, AU$ 164.95
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Abstract
The paper presents a study on imperialism with a focus on France and her battle against English as an international language. The paper shows how France's battle against the use of English as the main language of the world is essentially a fight against globalization and the loss of French culture. The paper examines French cinema and its war against Hollywood.
From the Paper
"On March 23rd, 2006, during a meeting in Brussels, Jacques Chirac, the President of the French Republic, followed by two of his ministers, went out of the room when Ernest-Antoine Seillieres, the boss of the European bosses and former boss of the MEDEF, started delivering a speech in English. However bizarre or ludicrous this attitude may seem to many, whether French or not, it indicates something important as far as language is concerned. It reveals the omnipresence of the English language: even though translation was available - for, in the European Union, all languages of the member-states are official - a Frenchman chose to express himself in a foreign tongue. Why didn't he stick to his native language?"
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Language and Gender, 2007.
A look at how language reflects the social inequalities between genders.
1,963 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 101.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that language, a highly social tool, reflects the social reality men have created. It discusses how, by reassessing their power, women have begun the battle for linguistic equality, thus triggering change and variation in language. The paper attempts to give an overview of the evolution of this particular area of research, and in the second part of the paper, details the linguistic androcentricity.
From the Paper
"But before going into further detail, the notion of gender must be defined precisely, because it is at the heart of our discussion. Gender is a very complex concept that is completely different from that of biological sex; while the latter is something given when a baby is born, the former is a construct, something that a person develops all along his/her lifetime. In The Second Sex, Simone De Beauvoir famously wrote, "one is not born a woman, but becomes one." It could actually be argued that it is the same for a man. This quotation exemplifies the notion of gender inasmuch as it shows that it is a social construct, that an individual will 'receive' from the social order an idea of what it is to be a man or a woman, and he or she will take what s/he judges good. "
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Slang, 2007.
An overview of the language phenomenon known as slang.
2,353 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 117.95
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Abstract
The paper first tries to define slang and looks at its different characteristics such as level of informality. It discusses how it cannot be equated with words such as jargon and lingo. It also gives examples of certain types of slang such as French verlan and Cockney rhyming slang.
From the Paper
"Nevertheless, the most prominent characteristic of slang seems to be its level of informality. This is actually the first connotation borne by the noun itself. I remember when I bought my very first English slang dictionary. The cover was depicting the 'ghetto' as it were, with a wall daubed with graffiti. The power of the image is such that it forces meaning - subjective connotations in fact - on you, thus depicting slang as the language of the street and making it an urban phenomenon, typical of 'bad' areas. But then, don't they use slang words in the countryside? Slang is actually a style category within the language, occupying an extreme position on the spectrum of formality: it is made up of highly informal words that constitute a deviation from standard language. As mentioned above, it seems to defy established forms and constituted authorities. "
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Language and the Gay Identity, 2006.
An analysis of the importance of language in establishing a sense of identity.
1,817 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 11 sources, APA, AU$ 94.95
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Abstract
This paper deals with the importance of language in the formation and establishment of a gay identity. It first follows Foucault's argument (language is a place of power where social norms are constructed) and then tries to identify how language can be subverted so that gays can reassess their own sense of identity.
From the Paper
"So as to fully comprehend how a 'same-sex attracted' person can establish his/her own identity as s/he feels and senses it, we first need to see how language works, especially for those who do not seem to belong to the 'mainstream'. Indeed, what are at work within language are relations of power. What can thus be witnessed is the cultural, social and linguistic domination of one group over another. It seems that, from the beginning of humanity, men are the ones who dominate and it has been proven by feminists that women have been maintained under a linguistic yoke, among others. Suffice to think of the host of derogatory terms that can be used against women. And if we turn to 'homosexuals', we note the same phenomenon. An identity, i.e. a category, is created as less powerful - through the use of language as a system of representation - for heterosexual (men) to maintain their position of power. "
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Raising Children Bilingually, 2007.
This paper looks at the challenge of raising a child bilingually.
825 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 47.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses a reality that affects thousands of parents who face the problems of raising their child bilingually. The writer looks at how parents can assure that their child are able to speak their mother-tongue when living in a foreign county. This essay addresses the challenge that faces families from all ethnic groups and races; that of assuring bilingual efficiency. The writer maintains that the process of language learning, even for young children, can be extremely stressful, and the impact of both negative and positive attitudes from peers, family, and the surrounding society can be significant. The writer concludes that early exposure to the language has been proven beneficial, and can strengthen motivation and facilitate learning.
Outline:
Introduction
Looking At the Issues
From the Paper
Why do parents wish to raise their children bilingually? Language is cultural identity, and, for most parents who are from different racial backgrounds, the desire to teach their children their mother-tongue is based on the recognition that in achieving this, they are not only bringing the child's two cultures together, but also enabling a sense of both duality and international awareness that is unattainable in a monolingual world. It introduces the child to different cultural expectations, worldviews, and concepts. Therefore, for parents who are committed to this initiative, raising children bilingually is not only both challenging and rewarding, but is also a task that is practical and accessible. However, there are many people who feel that raising children bilingually can cause social, cultural, and personal development problems within the child (Maria Estela Brisk, et al, 2004).
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Stuttering, 2007.
An analysis of the negative stereotypes of stuttering and the sociolinguistic effect of stuttering on individuals.
2,124 words (approx. 8.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 107.95
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Abstract
This paper highlights the important topic of stuttering and its effects on individual stutterers, from a sociolinguistic point of view. It looks at the negative stereotypes and prejudices that are associated with people who stutter and those that attempt to conceal their stuttering. The paper analyzes whether attempting to conceal stuttering is in fact effective or if it adds to the negative stereotypes that surround stutterers.
Table of Contents:
Ignorance and Generalization
Backfiring of Concealment Strategies
From the Paper
"In sum, the attempts to disguise or avoid stuttering may contribute to an even worse overall perception of the stutterer. Listeners are not easily fooled by concealment strategies, and they tend to react more favourable to speech "blocks, repetitions and prolongations" than to attempts of disguise (Parry)."
"Even if the stutterer does get away with his attempt, the outcome might be far from desirable. He may confirm the popular stereotype that sutterers are "shy, nervous, anxious, tense, fearful, introverted, quiet or reticent (Acton and Hird 505; Heite)," or maybe even worse, create himself a social identity that is associated with terms like arrogance and disinterest."
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Vocabulary and Comprehension, 2007.
This paper discusses vocabulary and increasing the student's ability to comprehend.
1,753 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 91.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that among the many plausible reasons for helping students build vocabulary, perhaps the most important is the contribution of vocabulary knowledge to reading comprehension. The writer notes that one of the most enduring findings in reading research concerns the extent to which students' vocabulary knowledge relates to their reading comprehension. The writer points out that given that students' success in school and beyond depends in great measure upon their ability to read with comprehension, there is an urgent need to provide instruction that equips students with the skills and strategies necessary for lifelong vocabulary development. The writer concludes that reading comprehension places heavy demands not only on classroom teachers but also on curriculum planners, community workers, and parents.
Outline:
Introduction
History of Vocabulary ~ What is Vocabulary?
The Influence of National and State Standards
Two Best Assessment Procedures
Role of Technology
"Best Instructional" Practices in Reading and Writing
Five Dimensions of Learning Specifically Related to Vocabulary
Why is This Topic Important for Teachers?
From the Paper
"Vocabulary is knowledge of words and word meanings. However, vocabulary is more complex than this definition suggests. Most commonly, words come in two forms: oral and print. Oral vocabulary includes the words that we recognize and use in listening and speaking. Print vocabulary, are those words that we recognize and use in reading and writing. Next, we have word knowledge, which also comes in two forms, receptive and productive. Receptive vocabulary includes the words that we recognize when we hear or see them. Productive vocabularies are words that we use when we speak or write. According to research, receptive vocabulary is typically larger than productive vocabulary, and may include many words to which we give meaning, even if we don't know their full definitions - or ever use them ourselves when we speak and write."
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Oral Tradition, Gossip and Urban Legends, 1999.
This paper explores how human communication has changed over time.
3,329 words (approx. 13.3 pages), 13 sources, MLA, AU$ 154.95
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Abstract
This paper is a comparative analysis of various types of story transmission; specifically oral tradition, gossip and urban legends. The paper offers discusses and offers definitions of oral history, gossip, folklore, oral tradition, rumors and urban legends. The paper describes how and why story transmission has changed over the centuries. The paper examines some of the pros and cons of the different types of human communication.
From the Paper
"Languages are not static and lifeless, they are alive - sloughing off unnecessary waste even as they are growing, expanding and regenerating. This constant change and flexibility enables language to thrive and remain useful. As a language experiences metamorphoses, the methods of application flourish as well, increasing communication capabilities and consequently maximizing potential benefits as well as negative possibilities."
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Idiosyncrasies of the English Language, 2007.
An analysis of the evolution, flexibility and irregularity of the English language.
4,022 words (approx. 16.1 pages), 16 sources, MLA, AU$ 175.95
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Abstract
This paper explains the developmental history of our ever-changing English language. It includes French, British, Spanish and Italian influences on English. The paper discusses differences between written and spoken language and how slang, jargon, euphemisms, cliches and idioms can make English a difficult language to learn. The paper cites several examples of well-known cliches and jargon and explains their origins.
From the Paper
"In most languages there is a distinction between that which is written and that which is spoken, a difference between literature and colloquial speech. In written literature we can see the broad outlines of history, but the language of literature has historically been that of the ruling class. The spoken language, the common everyday speech, reveals the intimate, familiar lives of the people, even when reading and writing were limited to the upper classes. In his 1888 book, The Queen's English: A Manual of Idiom and Usage, Dean Henry Alford described the difference between written and spoken English at that time:
We must distinguish between the English which we speak, and that which we write. Many expressions are not only tolerated but required in conversation, which are not usually put on paper. Thus . . . everyone says 'can't', . . . 'won't' [and] 'isn't', . . . but we seldom see these contractions in books, except where a conversation is related. (Alford 57)"
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Pragmatics - Grammatical Constructions, 2007.
A discussion regarding construction grammar and grammatical constructions.
917 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 16 sources, MLA, AU$ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses construction grammar. According to the paper, construction grammar (CxG) is a usage-based framework, and it endeavors to treat all types of expressions as equally central to capturing grammatical patterning.
Outline:
Fillmore's approach to Construction Grammar
More cognitive approaches to Construction Grammar
Towards a "Fluid" Construction Grammar
From the Paper
"A. Radical Construction Grammar (Croft): all constructions are language-specific; all categories are defined by constructions; constructions are the primitive units of language. This kind of CxG takes into account cross-linguistic factors, dealing with the internal structure of constructions. Radical CxG is non-reductionist: constructions are not derived from their parts, but the parts are derived from the constructions. Radical CxG is opposed to the idea that syntactic categories, roles, and relations are universal. Moreover, they are not only language-specific, but also construction-specific. Instead of syntactic relations, Radical CxG rather talks about semantic relations. Indeed, it is closely related to cognitive linguistics."
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