Exploring Issues of Language

 

 

INTRODUCTION
Within our culture, language plays myriad roles; it can be cooperative (as described by Hayakawa); political (ahh, Orwell); propagandist (think “framing language” and euphemisms); and more.  To further complicate language, there exist within our culture various language subcultures which can be based on region, ethnicity, age, sex, social circles, and socio-economic status.


• Frequently, there are differences in language that exist between these cultures. Sometimes different words are used to connote the same thing, such as hoagie or submarine sandwich. Other times, the same word is used to connote difference things, such as when Gloria Naylor describes the use of the word “nigger” within and outside her culture.
• The most interesting changes come when different words or meanings are used to imply social or political differences, or when they are used to try to change a perception. This happens with terms such as “shell shock” becoming “post-traumatic stress syndrome.” This use is often called a “euphemism.” Euphemisms can be relatively harmless when we are simply trying to soften the impact of a term, such as “passing away” for “dying.” They can, however, be used for more political strategies, of other propaganda type purposes.
• The third major difference is when two groups view the same activity from different perspectives, with the language showing that perspective. One example is a freedom fighter versus a terrorist.

 

 

essay assignment – Consider a word or phrase that has significant social or political implications in our culture and argue that this word, depending upon who says it, (e.g. its historical, cultural, national, social contexts) has different meanings. Consider Naylor and Mairs as examples. Explore the meanings of the word/phrase, both connotatively and denotatively. Interview friends and families for their perceptions of the word. Perhaps do some research on the history of the word/phrase.

 

Don’t make your life harder: choose a word that has a significant impact on our culture and examine it in-depth; in other words, no hoagie essays. Yes, these Subway sandwiches are yummy and good for you, but they are not a real significant element of the American cultural landscape and will not receive a good grade.

 

YOU WILL WRITE…

…a cohesive, well-organized paper that EXPLAINS the differences from an objective point of view. Use your own specific examples or REAL examples from your research to ILLUSTRATE the various perspectives of your word/phrase. Additionally, you must reference at LEAST ONE AUTHOR from our language unit to develop your analysis. Explain in particular WHY certain groups find it necessary to change the meaning of the word/phrase, or to find different words to explain the same thing. What is the IMPACT of these changes?  The most important element of this assignment is “the WHY” so spend time on this analysis.

 

 

EVALUTION
This paper will NOT be scored on grammar & mechanics unless your errors interfere with my reading and understanding your essay. The major assessment will be based on DEVELOPMENT (content, evidence, analysis/commentary), UNITY, FOCUS, and ORGANIZATION.  Total Points: 100

 

DEADLINES

Rough draft due for WORKSHOP              Thursday, September 20th

Final draft due                                           TBD -- week of September 24th    


SUBMISSION

In a pocket folder, include hard copy with ALL drafts, pre-writing and workshops; submit final to SafeAssignment by end of day of final due date