L520 Sociolinguistics

This course surveys the various areas of research in sociolinguistics:
multilingualism in its various forms (e.g., language choice,
diglossia, and code-switching), language policy and planning,
language death,geographical and social variation, language change,
politeness,language and gender, pidgins & creoles, and institutional
discourse. Examples drawn both from "exotic" and familiar communities
are discussed. Requirements for the course may include (1) a diary in
which students record observations on language and society and
reflect on them, (2) a few assignments, (3) a mid-term examination,
and (4) a final take-home examination.
Texts:
1. Trudgill, Peter 2000. Sociolinguistics. 4th edition. Middlesex:
Penguin Books.
2. Fasold, Ralph 1990. Sociolinguistics of language. Oxford: Basil
Blackwell.