Blog #4

Language is power and a tool used to empower students. In the article by Canagarajah it explains how diverse language is. Besides that, Canagarajah also explains that as future educators especially we should instead of trying to push “Metropolitan English” which is language spoken by dominant society such as the United States, Canada, etc. But instead we should encourage students to use their primary language to assist them in mastering grammar. Besides that, Canagarajah goes into details explaining how we only use other World English’s when it is not in a formal situation. This shows how lesser we think of those who do not speak what we view as standard English. The reason is because we automatically have this negative connotation that those who cannot write properly or speak flawlessly then they are then seen as not a smart. But then how can we judge someone for that when they are not smart based on our standard not theirs or their community. This is something that Canagarajah focuses on which is trying to break this barrier what we view as standard English and trying to show that there is no right way to speak English.

Besides just another languages Canagarajah also explains that teachers should also accept other English language that students speak just like African American English or different versions of English that students from different parts of the world speak. I think though we should still try to teach students basic grammar rules, we should not try to limit their language and speech by telling them the English they speak is wrong.

I think one of the biggest things I’ve learned is seeing how as a teacher it is more than merely teaching your subject to your students, but it is also trying to incorporate others language and cultures as a way to explain lesson. I think this ultimately is the most important thing as a teacher we can do. The reason being is because it will show students that one culture is not more important than theirs. But instead were all equal. By showing students that it will get students to want to experiment more with language and take chances because they won’t be embarrassed. Besides that, I’ve also learned that different languages aren’t just about people from different countries speaking different language, but also understanding that the way someone speaks English the way you do that instead of telling them their grammar is lesser we should encourage students to use that language.

Language—though unique—should be taught to students in Middle and High School. The reason is because during this time many students are trying to discover themselves and coming to terms with themselves. Language is a huge part of that. By being able to teach students about incorporating their own language in whether their writing or learning grammar. By teaching that is shows students that it isn’t merely just using full and complete sentences, but understanding that when I drop the -g in many words isn’t because I don’t understand how to write. But because that’s the type of speech I am familiar with.