Double Journal Entry #2

Quote:
"Before we despair that language is going to hell in a handcart, we should remember two lessons. First, normativeness in language goes through cycles, much like taste in music and politics. All is not lost. And second, regardless of the swings that language goes through, there is room for individual schools or teachers to set their own standards. Most schools have abandoned teaching handwriting, but a few have held their ground, to the good fortune of their students. Just so, if you choose to insist on written precision, students generally will follow your lead."

Response:
I agree with this statement. I believe that all languages change and develop over time. We as Americans, for example, don't speak or write in the same way we did 200 years ago. This is why most people have difficulty reading and understanding old documents like the Declaration of Independence. Words that were used then just simply aren't used now. However, it is important that students understand older versions of language so they can look at that old document and understand it's meaning. Otherwise history could be lost through the ages.

I liked how the author of this article used the example of Old English being obsolete today. A typical student in America today, if given a document or story written in Old English, would probably be horrified that they would even have to try to decipher the strange language on the page. Language is constantly changing and people should be aware of the changes and adapt to them.

If students are expected to use proper grammar and avoid abbreviations while in the classroom, they generally will. Most students understand that there is a difference between scholastic language and casual language. People throughout history have used different dialects and words while talking to close friends than when they are talking professionally. In cultural study language is actually broken up into sub-categories including Intimate language, Casual Language, and Professional Language. Its is accepted that a person will talk to their spouse in a more casual manner than their supervisor.

All in all I don't believe the new language revolution is something to be afraid of. As educators we should be able to understand the new technological language, but still instill the value of using proper English to our students. Our job is to produce well rounded citizens and language development is just a part of that job.We should revel in the fact that we are living in a time of such monumental change and enjoy the ride!

Reference:

Baron, Naomi. "Are Digital Media Changing Language?." ASCD 66.6 (2009): 42-46. Educational Leadership. Web. 1 Sept. 2011.