English Language AQA A Level Paper 2
Theorists + Key Info. Diversity + Language
Change 2024
What does Joanna Thornborrow say? - Use of language is one of the most
fundamental ways that we have to establish and shape our identity.
Language is vital to identity.
What did Labov find? - Martha's Vineyard
Focused on the dialect of the islanders. He found the locals had a unique dialect.
He theorised this dialect was used to create a shared group identity of 'locals' to
separate themselves from the waves of tourists that visited.
Use of language to create a group identity.
What is Standard English? - The standard, prestigious dialect of English, used in
the education system and formal written texts.
,English Language AQA A Level Paper 2
Theorists + Key Info. Diversity + Language
Change 2024
What is slang? - Non-standard language that consists of words and phrases that
are regarded as very informal, are more common in speech than writing, and are
typically restricted to a particular context or group of people.
What is Dialect? - Lexical features or variations in grammar specific to a certain
group of people (Generally in a certain region, eg midlands)
What is taboo language? - Lexical choices that are deemed offensive,
inappropriate and unacceptable eg swearing.
What is the influence of technology on language? - Use of phrases and words
associated with technology are becoming more common (in written form) such as
'lol' 'tbh' 'imo' etc
What is neologism? - A completely new word 'made up' and introduced into a
language
What is occupational register? - Language based on a shared interest and
understanding, also known as jargon. Eg Journalese, gamer language etc
, English Language AQA A Level Paper 2
Theorists + Key Info. Diversity + Language
Change 2024
What is Received Pronunciation? - The most prestigious, hyperformal type of
dialect. Used by the queen and is seen as the 'correct' way to speak English.
What is a regional accent? - The way you pronounce certain words depending on
where you live. Different to dialect - not whole new words, simply pronunciation
of words.
Why do dialects exist? - • Settlement/Invasion of different peoples and their
languages
• Geographical factors (Isolation stopping sound changes spreading to them)
• Language contact(Influence of Irish/Welsh for example)
• Group reference and personal identity
What did Ives find on immigrants? - Speakers of Bradford Asian English
consciously mixed Punjabi and English to create a "British Asian" group identity
exclusive to 2nd generation youth. Language use unifies them.
Theorists + Key Info. Diversity + Language
Change 2024
What does Joanna Thornborrow say? - Use of language is one of the most
fundamental ways that we have to establish and shape our identity.
Language is vital to identity.
What did Labov find? - Martha's Vineyard
Focused on the dialect of the islanders. He found the locals had a unique dialect.
He theorised this dialect was used to create a shared group identity of 'locals' to
separate themselves from the waves of tourists that visited.
Use of language to create a group identity.
What is Standard English? - The standard, prestigious dialect of English, used in
the education system and formal written texts.
,English Language AQA A Level Paper 2
Theorists + Key Info. Diversity + Language
Change 2024
What is slang? - Non-standard language that consists of words and phrases that
are regarded as very informal, are more common in speech than writing, and are
typically restricted to a particular context or group of people.
What is Dialect? - Lexical features or variations in grammar specific to a certain
group of people (Generally in a certain region, eg midlands)
What is taboo language? - Lexical choices that are deemed offensive,
inappropriate and unacceptable eg swearing.
What is the influence of technology on language? - Use of phrases and words
associated with technology are becoming more common (in written form) such as
'lol' 'tbh' 'imo' etc
What is neologism? - A completely new word 'made up' and introduced into a
language
What is occupational register? - Language based on a shared interest and
understanding, also known as jargon. Eg Journalese, gamer language etc
, English Language AQA A Level Paper 2
Theorists + Key Info. Diversity + Language
Change 2024
What is Received Pronunciation? - The most prestigious, hyperformal type of
dialect. Used by the queen and is seen as the 'correct' way to speak English.
What is a regional accent? - The way you pronounce certain words depending on
where you live. Different to dialect - not whole new words, simply pronunciation
of words.
Why do dialects exist? - • Settlement/Invasion of different peoples and their
languages
• Geographical factors (Isolation stopping sound changes spreading to them)
• Language contact(Influence of Irish/Welsh for example)
• Group reference and personal identity
What did Ives find on immigrants? - Speakers of Bradford Asian English
consciously mixed Punjabi and English to create a "British Asian" group identity
exclusive to 2nd generation youth. Language use unifies them.
