Understanding dialects in the English language

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Language reflects the diversity of human culture and society. Among its most fascinating parts are dialects, regional or social varieties of a language distinguished by pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary. Dialects are the heartbeat of a language, pulsing with the rich stories, traditions and identities of those who speak them.

Understanding a language and dialect, and its significance, can enrich the learning experience for language learners, offering a deeper appreciation of a language and its speakers. Dialects are not just variations within a language; they are often considered separate entities, each with its own rich history and cultural significance, highlighting the complexity and diversity of linguistic expression.

What exactly is a regional dialect?

At its core, a dialect is a variation of a language spoken by a particular group of people. However, the distinction between dialects and a different language can often be subjective. These variations can occur due to geographical, social class, ethnic, or historical reasons. While all speakers of a language share the same basic grammar rules and vocabulary, those speaking different dialects might use unique words and slang or have distinct pronunciations, highlighting the lack of an objective difference between dialects and languages.

For instance, British and American English are two dialects of the English language that are mutually intelligible, meaning speakers of either dialect can understand, and be understood, by the other. They share the same foundational grammar and most of the core vocabulary but differ in pronunciation, spelling, and some aspects of vocabulary and idioms. Similarly, within Britain or the United States, there are numerous regional dialects (e.g., Yorkshire English, Southern American English) that further showcase the diversity within a single language. Some of these dialects are considered by their speakers to be distinct languages, emphasizing the complex nature of linguistic identity and classification.

What is an example of a dialect?

An example of dialect variation can be seen in the Italian language, which boasts a wide range of regional dialects, showcasing linguistic diversity with multiple dialects spoken across Italy.

For example, the Tuscan dialect has historically been recognized as the basis for standard Italian, largely due to its use in influential literature. However, other dialects from regions like Sicily or Lombardy vary significantly from Tuscan Italian in terms of pronunciation, vocabulary and syntax, reflecting the diverse cultural landscapes and histories of Italy’s regions.

Another example of this variation of dialect within a single language is found in the United Kingdom. For instance, the Cockney dialect, originating from London’s East End, is renowned for its rhyming slang and distinct vowel sounds, serving as a prime example of spoken dialects that emphasize the importance of oral tradition. Contrastingly, the Geordie dialect, native to Newcastle and the surrounding areas, boasts an entirely different set of vocabulary, pronunciation patterns, and even grammatical structures, further highlighting the diverse range of spoken dialects within the standard English language.

What is the difference between a dialect and an accent?

The distinction between a dialect and an accent is subtle yet significant. An accent relates solely to differences in pronunciation - the distinct manner in which people say words, often influenced by unique speech patterns that can vary significantly across different languages and regions.

In contrast, a dialect encompasses not only pronunciation and accent but also includes specific grammar and vocabulary. Accents can be a component of a dialect, but dialects offer a broader spectrum of linguistic variety, including lexical and grammatical differences.

For instance, someone might speak English with a Scottish accent but use the same grammatical structures and vocabulary as an English speaker from London; however, Scots, a variety spoken in Scotland, is considered a dialect (or even a separate, distinct language, by some) because it possesses unique grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation.

Why are different dialects important?

Dialects are more than just linguistic variations; they are windows into communities' cultural and social fabric. They carry with them histories, traditions and the identity of their speakers. Some dialects are even considered 'distinct languages' by their speakers, highlighting the deep cultural significance of these linguistic forms. Learning about dialects, including regional dialects, can thus offer insights into:

  • Cultural contexts: Understanding the dialects of a language, especially regional dialects, can provide language learners with a richer cultural understanding and a more nuanced perspective of the language’s speakers. This exploration into regional dialects reveals the arbitrary distinction between 'standard' and 'nonstandard' dialects, which is often based on social, political, cultural, or historical considerations.
  • Social dynamics: Dialects can reflect social distinctions, historical migrations and contact with other languages, offering clues about social hierarchies, historical conflicts and integrations.
  • Language evolution: Studying dialects reveals how languages change over time, adapting to societies' needs, migrations and innovations.
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Factors that influence dialects

Several factors can significantly influence the development and usage of dialects, including:

  • Geography: The geographical location of a group of speakers can play a significant role in shaping their dialect. Geographic isolation or settlement patterns can result in linguistic variations that may become entrenched as distinct dialects.
  • History: Historical events such as invasions, migrations, trade, colonization and even political alignments profoundly affect the development of dialects. For instance, the diversity of dialects in the British Isles can be traced back to the influence of Celtic, Norse and Norman French languages due to historical conquests and settlements.
  • Social Interaction: The level and type of interaction among social groups also contribute to dialect formation. Social segregation or integration can influence the emergence of new dialects or the disappearance of existing ones.
  • Economic conditions: Economic factors and shifts can lead to migrations and changes in social organization, which, in turn, affect language use and the development of dialects. Industrialization, for example, has caused significant shifts in dialects due to rural-urban migration.

Understanding these factors provides insights into the intricate processes that shape the evolution of dialects, offering a glimpse into the dynamic nature of human language and its ability to adapt to myriad changes in society.

How many dialects of English are there?

Estimating the exact number of English dialects worldwide is a complex task, given the language’s global spread and the constant evolution of speech communities. However, researchers and linguists have identified hundreds of dialects ranging from broad categorizations like British, American, Australian and Canadian English, to more specific regional varieties and local dialects such as Cockney (London), Scots (Scotland), African American Vernacular English (AAVE) in the United States, and Hiberno-English in Ireland. This diversity is a testament to the adaptability of English and its ability to incorporate elements from various cultures and languages.

The vast array of English dialects can be as distinct as separate languages, highlighting the rich linguistic diversity within the English-speaking world. Each dialect, with its unique expressions, intonations and vocabulary, can be considered an 'own language' by its speakers, the same language reflecting their unique identity and cultural heritage.

Are any dialects going extinct?

In today's swiftly globalizing world, where a handful of 'world languages' are becoming increasingly dominant, many dialects are under the threat of disappearing. This is particularly evident when the speakers of these dialects migrate and adopt more dominant languages for better integration into new communities or for economic reasons, leading to a decrease in the number of fluent speakers. Furthermore, the widespread influence of digital media and the internet promotes a more uniform use of the same language throughout, further endangering dialects with fewer speakers.

For instance,in Australia, North America and other parts of the world are at such critical risk that only a few fluent speakers remain, primarily among the older generation. Efforts to document and revitalize these dialects are underway, highlighting the urgent need to preserve the linguistic diversity that they represent. It's a reminder of how linguistic heritage is deeply intertwined with cultural identity, and losing a dialect can equate to losing a piece of human history.

How can language learners benefit from understanding dialects?

For language learners, venturing into the realm of dialects can be both challenging and rewarding. Here’s how understanding dialects can benefit learners:

  • Enhanced listening skills: Exposure to various dialects can improve learners’ ability to understand the language in different contexts, making them more adaptable and competent speakers.
  • Authentic communication: Learning the nuances of a dialect can allow language learners to communicate more authentically with native speakers, fostering deeper connections and understanding. Understanding how a person speaks, including their dialect, can enhance language learners' ability to connect with native speakers on a more personal and cultural level, enriching the learning journey.
  • Cultural immersion: Exploring dialects opens the door to exploring cultural nuances and traditions expressed through language, enhancing the immersive learning experience.

Navigating dialects as a language learner

While the diversity of dialects enriches a language, it can also present learners with the dilemma of which dialect to focus on. Here are a few strategies to navigate this challenge:

  1. Identify your goals: If your aim is to live in a specific region or work in a particular field, learning the local dialect might be more beneficial. However, focusing on the standard or widely understood dialect may be more pragmatic for general communication.
  2. Expose yourself to various dialects: Use media, literature and conversations with native speakers to familiarise yourself with different dialects. This exposure can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the language as a whole.
  3. Seek context: When encountering dialectal words or structures, try to understand the context in which they are used. This approach can help demystify dialectal variations and integrate them into your language use.

Understanding dialects is like exploring the soul of speech in a language, revealing the intricacies and beauties embedded within speech and its form. For language learners, this exploration is not just an academic exercise but a rich, rewarding experience that connects them more deeply with the language and its speakers. Happy dialect exploring!

Whether you're a beginner or looking to master the subtleties of English dialects, we have something for everyone. Join us in the world of language learning byclicking here to read more in our blogs.

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  • A teacher standing over a desk where a student is sat, helping them. Students are also sat at desks in the background

    4 key challenges in secondary education

    By Anna Roslaniec

    Let’s examine four of the most common challenges secondary teachers have and look into some strategies to help solve them.

    1. My students are afraid of making mistakes

    You’re not alone! Many teachers say their teenage students are quiet and unwilling to answer questions in class. Sometimes, this might simply be because they don’t know the answers, but more often than not, they are nervous about making mistakes.

    When children grow into teenagers, they tend to become more self-conscious and worried about what their peers think of them – and making mistakes in public is a big no-no for them. However, there are several ways to facilitate a safe learning environment where your students are happy and willing to talk. Sometimes, though, it takes a little experimentation. Here are some things you can try:

    Celebrate mistakes

    When students make mistakes, ensure that you praise them for taking a risk or making an effort. Correct their errors and be clear with the rest of the class that the only way to learn is to try new things.

    Be firm

    Don’t tolerate any bullying or laughing when someone gets an answer wrong. If your students fear that others will mock them for their efforts, they’ll stay quiet. So make sure you have clear rules and that your students understand that mistakes are normal and to be expected.

    Have students discuss their answers in pairs or groups

    If your students are painfully shy and afraid of making mistakes, avoid picking on individuals to answer questions in front of the class. Instead, when asking a question, tell your students to discuss it in pairs or small groups first. This will allow them to formulate their ideas and feel more confident. Afterwards, you can ask the pairs to share what they discussed – leading to a natural open-class discussion.

    Listen to your students

    Another, powerful way of engaging your students in discussion is to listen to a conversation they are having with their partners and then express how impressed you are with their ideas during a feedback session. E.g. “You said X, which I thought was very interesting. Could you explain this to the class? It was a great idea.” This gives them the confidence to share their thoughts.

    2. My students are not engaged with the activities I choose

    This is another very common problem for teachers of teenagers. You spend a lot of time thinking of fun, interesting activities – then, when you present them to the class, your students look away and say they’re bored. Soon enough, you’ll get frustrated and not know how to re-engage them. Here are some ideas to help:

    Get to know your students

    Without fail, the best way to engage your students is by getting to know them as individuals over the year. Find out about their hobbies and interests outside of school, and learn what makes them laugh and what worries them. Use your knowledge of your students to find interesting books to read, videos to watch, or relevant subjects to discuss. This way, you’ll deliver tailored lessons your students find truly interesting and useful.

    Allow a degree of autonomy

    Sometimes quietness is also a sign of disengagement with the learning materials. To get past this obstacle, you can get your students to brainstorm things that interest them in groups, list them on the board and have a class vote on the topic of their next class project. As a teacher, you always have the power to veto inappropriate ideas, but giving students a voice is a powerful way of making them feel valued and involved in their own education.

    Make things (a little) competitive

    Even teenagers love games! And play is an integral part of learning, as it allows our students to be themselves, have fun, and communicate freely at the same time. By allowing them to play language-focused games in class, they’ll soon forget their inhibitions and start talking.

    3. My students just want to do grammar exercises

    Language is all about communication, speaking, listening, reading and writing – yet all your students want to do is grammar exercises. Frustrating as this is, it’s probably a sign that our students are not confident in their speaking or listening abilities. Here’s what you can do:

    Encourage free language practice

    Grammar activities are very structured and there is often a clear answer. Day-to-day communications, however, are much freer, which can intimidate less confident students. This activity will help you combine the two aspects of language learning:

    • Put students in small groups and give them a set of cards with exciting topics printed on them—for example; music, sports, environment, school, vacations, friends, food.
    • Tell students that they should each choose a card and speak freely about their topic for 30 seconds – the short time will help them overcome their fear of speaking and can be gradually increased as they get used to this type of activity.
    • Have students record themselves when they are speaking and then, when they listen back, have them identify the grammatical structures they used.

    They should write down and correct any mistakes under your guidance. Not only will this get students used to talking and encourage a lot of emergent language, but it will also help them feel they are practicing grammar.

    If your students really enjoy learning grammar, you can ‘flip’ your grammar activities and make them more communicative. First, provide them with a series of sentences or listening clips which have a common grammatical structure (second conditional sentences, for example).

    Then have students work together (in English) to identify how the language is structured, so they can discover the grammar point for themselves. This not only gets them talking, but they are doing something they feel confident at.

    4. My students are bored of all the repetition

    Repetition is an important part of language learning. By practicing things over and over again, your students will come to understand it better and will be able to produce the language more easily. However, repetition is often quite dull, especially for fast learners. Here’s how you can make things more interesting for your teenage students:

    Use a greater variety of activities to engage your learners

    If you’ve been teaching your students a particular set of vocabulary, a grammatical structure, or some pronunciation rules, think about how else they can practice them.

    For example, instead of drilling pronunciation over and over again, ask students to think of all the words they can think of that have the same sound in them (e.g. book, look, cook, shook, etc.). This will help them ‘hear’ the sounds in their heads and improve their understanding of other words.

    If you have been learning vocabulary through reading, have students write or tell stories that incorporate the words.

    The idea is not to stop repeating the target language or skill, but to practice it in different ways. Apply this principle to other areas of language learning so your students won’t feel like they are repeating things.