<p>Lecture, two hours; discussion, one hour. Introduction to key topics in sociolinguistics such as language variation, the performativity of language, language attitudes and ideologies, and the sociocognitive underpinnings of human communication. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students learn to analyze language in its social context, gaining insights into the intricate relationship between linguistic practices and social structures. By critically examining how language reflects and reinforces systems of power, privilege, and inequality—and how it shapes perspective and access—students are equipped with tools to engage thoughtfully with the complex sociolinguistic realities of the world around them. Letter grading.</p>

Linguistics

College of Letters and Science

General Education — Social Analysis (Society & Culture)

General Education — Philosophical & Linguistic Analysis (Arts & Humanities)

LING 11 - Scientific Study of Language and Society

Scientific Study of Language and Society

Develop information literacy skills by locating, evaluating, and synthesizing scholarly and media sources, distinguishing fact from opinion and hypothesis.

Formulate and test research questions using qualitative and quantitative data to identify patterns in sociolinguistic behavior.

Engage with sociolinguistic terminology and key concepts to build foundational knowledge about language variation and social identities.

Analyze social influences on language by applying sociolinguistic frameworks to understand how factors like gender, race, and class shape language use.

Reflect on the impact of sociocultural contexts on language practices, gaining an appreciation for diversity in language use.

Evaluate and apply sociolinguistic research methodologies, assessing ethical considerations and selecting appropriate methods for studying language in diverse communities.

Collaborate effectively in research settings, working through structured project milestones to achieve collective learning goals.

Communicate sociolinguistic findings effectively to both academic and general audiences by translating complex ideas into accessible language.

General Catalog

Scientific Study of Language and Society

LING 11

5 units