Language Diversity

What's It All About?

The Diversity module is a firm favourite for a lot of our students. In this topic you'll traverse the different 'sociolinguistic variables' which influence each individual's language usage and delve into ideas about language identity.

You'll explore the range of theories, case studies and research various linguists have conducted on the variables then get the chance to challenge their views and findings.

Some of the key variables:

Gender
Age
Regional Background
Social Class
Sexuality
Occupation
Ethnicity

UK Accents

American Teen Slang

Gender Differences

Find Out More

Click the buttons to find out more about some of the key diversity variables.

"I love this part of the course, there's such a wide variety of interesting topics." - Dan

"I'm always up for a debate and this module really allows for that." - Charlotte

Language Diversity Activities

Divided Opinions

Think whether you agree, disagree or have mixed feelings about each of the following statements. Try to think of evidence that supports your viewpoint.

You could discuss them with a family member or friend as well to get a good discussion going, it will be interesting to see if they have different opinions!

Statements

Boys and girls use language in totally different ways.
British English is superior to other international forms of English (American English etc.)
People should reduce their regional accents when speaking in public.
Your spelling reflects your intelligence.
The English spelling system should be simplified.
People should be encouraged to create new words and expressions.
Teenagers’ language is significantly different from older people’s.
Your language usage depends on your social class.
Some accents are more attractive than others.

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