Do we see our world through the language we speak or does everyone see the world in the same way? Are all languages equal? What does it mean to speak a dialect of a language? What is language variation? How do we show our identity through language? This course surveys the main concepts and methods used to analyse language within different social settings. Concepts will be illustrated by current and topical examples. Students will also have an opportunity to observe language in its social context.

On satisfying the expectations of the course, you should be able to

• Assess the ways in which speakers use linguistic choices to communicate social meaning, such as age, gender, social network, socio-economic status.
• Work in small groups to explain issues related to language and society.
• Critically evaluate various sociolinguistic theories and research.
• Think about, write and present an argument using evidence and results from sociolinguistic research.

Students will be assessed for participating in weekly tutorials (10%) and in weekly wiki discussions (25%).The practical assignment in which students collect sociolinguistic survey data (30%) is due in Week 10. A final exam (35%) will be held during the exam period. Passing of the course is conditional on students passing all assessment items.

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Mesthrie, R et al. (2009) Introducing Sociolinguistics. 2nd Ed. Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press.

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