chen's S-curve model (1968)

Question 1

what is the idea of the S-curve model?

Answer 1

• that language change can occur at a slow pace creating the initial curve of the ‘S’ and then increases speed as it becomes more common and accepted into the language.
• this can then slow down and again and level out once it has fully integrated into the language and is widely used.

Question 2

what does Chen argue about language change?

Answer 2

• chen argues users pick up a language change at a certain rate before spreading into wider language usage and then slowing.
• this change can be measured on a chart and will produce a curve resembling the letter ‘s.’

Question 3

what is the first stage to Chen’s S-curve?

Answer 3

Initiation: when a new words/forms/ phrases ect. are introduced.

Question 4

what is the second stage to Chen’s S-curve?

Answer 4

Expansion: the change spreads; more people use it.

Question 5

what is the third stage to Chen’s S-curve?

Answer 5

Termination: The rate at which is grows/ slows/ stops as most people are using it [however there are some who refuse to use the change.]