Language and Community

Question 1

Phonology

Answer 1

Sound/Punctuation of a word

Question 2

Semantics

Answer 2

Vocabulary (basically spelling)

Question 3

Copular

Answer 3

A verb that doesn’t show action but links the subject and the predicate of a sentence.

For Eg The book is open. (“is” is the copular)

        He seems tired. ("seems" is the copular)

Question 4

Morpheme

Answer 4

Part of a word that serves a grammatical function.

Eg “s” added to the end of words to pluralize them.

  "anti" used as a prefix to show opposite or contrast 
 (eg "anti-social")

   "full" is used to turn verbs and nouns into 
    adjectives. (eg "useful","respectful")

Question 5

Positive uses for language

Answer 5

• To mark one’s identity as part of a group, nationality, culture, etc.
• To mark solidarity with a community. By doing this, the speader reminds the community that he/she has been through the same experiences and that they are all equal.
• To promote and celebrate cultural awareness. This shows recognition and pride in the language being used.

Question 6

Negative used for language

Answer 6

• To assert authority over others. Speakers may switch to a different variety (eg the standard variety) to show that he/she is the one in control or charge.
• To discriminate against others. Speakers of non-standard varieties of language are often judged as uneducated or belonging to a lower class.
• To alienate. People may use a non-standard language or a standard language to make others feel like outsiders.