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In today’s culturally diverse classrooms, students possess and use many
culturally, ethnically, and regionally diverse English language varieties
that may differ from standardized English. This book helps classroom
teachers become attuned to these differences and offers practical
strategies to support student achievement while fostering positive language
attitudes in classrooms and beyond. The text contrasts standardized
varieties of English with Southern, Appalachian, and African American
English varieties, focusing on issues that are of everyday concern to those
who are assessing the linguistic competence of students. Featuring a
narrative style with teaching strategies and discussion questions, this
practical resource:
* Provides a clear, introductory explanation of what is meant by
non-standard English, from both linguistic and educational viewpoints.
* Emphasizes what educators needs to know about language variation in and
outside of the classroom.
* Addresses the social factors accompanying English language variation and
how those factors interact in real classrooms.
“Throughout this book, there is a regular alternation between description
of language and the insightful application of this knowledge to the
classroom. One never loses sight of the primary goal: to lead students to a
mastery of reading and writing of standardized English.” --From the
Foreword by William Labov, University of Pennsylvania
“A landmark book. . . . It guides linguists and educators as we all work to
apply our knowledge on behalf of those for whom it matters most: students.”
--From the Afterword by Walt Wolfram, North Carolina State University
“In the ongoing debate about language we typically hear arguments about
what students say and/or how they say it. Finally, a volume that takes on
the ‘elephant in the parlor’—WHO is saying it. By laying bare the
complicated issues of race, culture, region, and ethnicity, Charity Hudley
and Mallinson provide a scholarly significant and practically relevant text
for scholars and practitioners alike. This is bound to be an important
contribution to the literature.”--Gloria Ladson-Billings, University of
Wisconsin–Madison
“An invaluable guide for teachers, graduate students, and all lovers of
language. The authors provide a comprehensive and fascinating account of
Southern and African American English, showing how it differs from
standardized English, how those differences affect children in the
classroom, and how teachers can use these insights to better serve their
students.” --Deborah Tannen, University Professor and professor of
linguistics, Georgetown University
“Language variation in English is one of the more misunderstood areas in
education. The authors do an exceptional job of demystifying the topic by
providing useful background material and practical insights. This volume is
destined to become a foundational classic for teacher preparation and the
ongoing professional development of educators.” --Terrence G. Wiley,
president of the Center for Applied Linguistics and professor Emeritus,
Arizona State University
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