Description
Book SynopsisWhat do we need to know about language and why do we need to know it?Providing the essential tools with which to analyse and talk about language, this book demonstrates the relevance of linguistics to our understanding of the world around us. This second edition includes:- Discussion of key areas of contemporary interest, such as neo-pronouns, translanguaging, and communication in the digital arena-Two brand new chapters exploring language and identity, and language and social media- A range of new and international examples- New and updated references and suggested readings- Tasks to aid learning at the end of each chapter - A glossary of key terms.Introducing a set of practical tools for language analysis and using numerous examples of authentic communicative activity, such as overheard conversations, social media posts, advertisements and public announcements,
Why Do Linguistics? explores language and language use from a social, intercultural and multilingual perspect
Trade ReviewAppropriate for both aspiring linguists and those who simply find language fun,
Why Do Linguistics? builds on readers’ natural curiosity about language by providing and analyzing multitudes of real-world examples. This is the perfect text to pique and maintain students’ interest about the linguistic world around them. -- Meghan Moran, Northern Arizona University, USA
This excellent book covers a wide range of topics and is suitable for students at all levels, anchoring the study of language in everyday experience. The accessible text will challenge, entertain, and inform, and will generate a keen interest in the further study of linguistics. -- Susan Hunston, University of Birmingham, UK
Table of ContentsPreface to the second edition Introduction
Part I: Reflective Linguistics Introduction to Part I – Reflective Linguistics 1. About Noticing: Becoming A Linguistic Ethnographer 2. About Correctness: What is Good Language? 3. About Belonging: How does Language Enact Community? 4. About Diversity: How do Societies Organize Language? 5. About Difference: Do All Languages Work the Same Way?
Part II: The Study of Language Introduction to Part II – The Study of Language 6. Essential Linguistic Tools 7. A Framework for Analysis 8. Speaking and Spokenness 9. Writing and Writtenness 10. Choosing Our Words
Part III: Why Do Linguistics? Introduction to Part III – Why Do Linguistics? 11. The Subject that isn’t a Subject: How Schools Deal With Language, and Why it Matters 12. Translanguaging: When the Mixed Code is the Code 13. The Self and Others: Language and Identity 14. Encounters in The Digital Arena: Language and Social Media 15. So: Why Do Linguistics? References Glossary
