Internet Exercises

Malcolm X

In "Coming to an Awareness of Language" Malcolm X reveals the intensity with which he worked in an effort to improve his language skills. There are many web sites which offer information about his life and work. Check out this one at http://www.brothermalcolm.net/ for more information.

Johnson, Kirk

Johnson argues that young people's use of words and expressions such as "yeah, right," "duh," and "like" is perfectly understandable based upon the world they live in. Check out The College Slang page at http://www.intranet.csupomona.edu/~jasanders/slang/ and see what other words and phrases are considered in fashion, at least for today.

Tan, Amy

Tan writes about the different "versions" of English she uses and what that usage means. "Dat is Not Incorrect," an article that can be found at http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/archives/cover/1999/cover1224n.html speaks to the same topic. Take a look!

Cowley, Geoffrey

In "For the Love of Language," Cowley writes about the fact that children learn language skills very early on. He discusses the processes by which this happens and their importance. Check out Sign With Your Baby at http://www.sign2me.com/ and you just might be amazed at what babies can do.

Leslie, Connie with Daniel Glick and Jeanne Gordon

"Classrooms of Babel" addresses the difficult issue of multilingual classrooms. For a different perspective, check out this site from a school designed to be multilingual in an effort to enhance learning: http://www.schule.provinz.bz.it/ms-st-ulrich/stundenplaneng.htm.

Lutz, William

Lutz defines the various kinds of doublespeak and explains the dangers they present. Doublespeak has become so commonplace today that there is a site called the Quarterly Review of Doublespeak You can find it at http://www.chiprowe.com/magrev/doublespeak.html.

Tannen, Deborah

Tannen argues that men and women often have difficulty understanding each other because we speak different languages. She explains that men and women are different cultures and speaking to one another is cross-cultural communication. Some argue that this difference crosses over to online communication as well. Check this out for information: http://miavx1.muohio.edu/~psybersite/cyberspace/cyberfamily/fullanalysis.htx.

Write About It: Choose two of the sites about education and two about language. See if you can connect the ideas they present to make a statement about Language and Learning in Transition. When you write be sure to include your own opinions on this topic.