Linguistics Variation

Learning Contents Summary

A varitionistic approach to sociolinguistic study considers the distinctive features which give rise to linguistic variations that occur in individual’s speech utterances. Rather than being concerned with language in a more general or abstract way, sociolinguistic considers language as behaviour, specifically taking account of the regional and social situations in which language occurs, and the social as well as linguistic factors that affect how speakers relate to one another. In this regard, this course aims at exploring linguistics variations and factors that causes it's occurrence.

Goal

At the end of this course, learners should be able to:

• Understand the term, 'Linguistics Variation'.
• Identify it's occurrence in speech utterances in English Language.
• Point out factors that causes variations among different individuals' speech utterances.
• Identify the standard/received linguistics variables.

Concepts of Linguistics Variation

Linguistics Variation and it's concepts is central in sociolinguistics. Using English language as a case study, it is observed that the language varies on individual, regional, national and global levels. However, quite a good number of people seems/are not aware of various social and regional dialects, and different varieties of English in the world. This fact alone make the Understanding of these variations within a language a very important nuances for every member of the English community, and especially for those who receive a college education; hence, the role of sociolinguistics in the investigation all these language variations. [1]