A synthesis of a research project treating the relationship between the comprehension of English words, the ability to use them and their actual usage by members of various social groups in Paris. Topics covered are: methodology, classification of words, reactions of informants and interpretation of data. (Text is in French.) (AMH)

This excerpt from a book describes the development of a sociolinguistics course taught by computer. Computer modules for the instruction of phonology were used by students. Social implications of language use were explored through field work and term papers. (SW)

To show the correlation between sociocultural factors and linguistic performance, a qualitative classification of the head of noun clauses as used by elementary level children is attempted. (Text is in French.) (CDSH/CLK)

A discourse analysis of sixty French children aged ten to twelve from two socioeconomic groups. The object of the study was to describe the syntactic-semantic functioning of their language in an "abstract" situation and to determine the degree of influence of socio-cultural factors. (Text is in French.) (AMH)

A linguistic analysis of interviews between three patients and their psychiatrists and psychoanalysts which showed correspondence between the communication situation and the language used. The discussion includes reasons for choosing psychosomatic patients, lexical and syntactic analysis, and a short discussion of Harris's method of discourse…

A survey discussion of the question of standard languages versus dialects in education observes practice and conditions in America and Europe with attention to the definition of dialect. Responsibilities of the bilingual education teacher are outlined. (CHK)

Following a summary of various theories of language levels, a limited number of textbooks are examined according to their orientation toward either a descriptive analysis of the language or encouragement of expression and creativity among students. A bibliography of textbooks, books and articles is included. (Text is in French.) (AMH)

A sociological critique of language which substitutes the notion of acceptability for grammaticallity; the analogy of symbolic force for communication; the question of the value and power of discourse for meaning; and "symbolic capital," inseparable from the social position of the interlocuter, for purely linguistic competence. (Text is in…

An introduction to this issue of "Langue Francaise," on the relationship between linguistics, sociolinguistics and sociology. An overview is presented of the research methodology of each of these sciences, the contributions of generative grammar, and the point of view of the linguist, sociolinguist and grammarian. (Text is in French.) (AMH)

Discusses how the concept of index can be used to provide an extensive yet coherent account of communicative context, which can be integrated into the more general characterization of social relations provided by the study of institutional ideologies. (MM)

Describes the controversial Deficit Theory in relation to Mary Mason's position that educational failure and linguistic "handicap" or "deficit" are directly related. Argues that Mason's position reveals a limited understanding of both linguistics to education and the process of sociocultural transmission. Questions the quality…

Reviews recent research on aspects of mass media that use a sociolinguistic framework. Argues that linguistic strategies used by media personae to foster the appearance of neutrality as well as aspects of attribution are rich areas for sociolinguistic investigation. (SD)

A biblical story about the mispronunciation of Shibboleth introduces a discussion of the notion of cultural codes and cultural traits relating to language, science, and popular culture that commonly mark an individual as an insider or an outsider of a particular culture. (MSE)

Direct links between Australian English and the Australian culture are drawn. The author proposes ways in which a linguistically precise and culturally revealing study of linguistic phenomena such as expressive derivation, illocutionary devices, and speech act verbs are related to Australian society, history, culture, and "national…

Discusses three dominant ways in which language is understood within English studies: structuralism, dialogic discourse, and journals. Shows how each approach produces a different awareness of student texts. Demonstrates how different language theories entail unique interpretive strategies that either promote or disable particular understandings…