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Discourse Analysis, 2005.
Explains what discourse analysis means and looks the many different approaches to the subject.
2,681 words (approx. 10.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 80.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that there is more than one approach to the subject of discourse analysis and that these approaches are very different with regard to their focus, purpose and techniques.
From the Paper
"As far as focus is concerned, discourse analysis may concentrate on the conclusions of the discourse itself or on the social processes and structure in accordance to which the discourse is constructed. Systemic linguistics approaches are appropriate for the first category, as there is always a very well defined boundary between language and society, with emphasis on the former. On the other hand, the common discourse analysis in sociology and social psychology has a broader focus and usually rejects the artificial distinction between discursive and social actions - since "all discourse is action and all action is discursive"."
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English Structure vs. Russian Translation, 2005.
A report on the structure of the English and Russian languages as they pertain to the unique skill of translation.
3,107 words (approx. 12.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 90.95
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Abstract
This report focuses on differences between the Russian and English languages in terms of word and object meanings, direct translations, sayings, rules in grammar and other critical lexical rules such slang and idiom use.
Introduction
History of Russian in America
Lexicography
Semasiology
Russian Structure
Translation by Dictionary
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The actions of Post World War II Soviet Union and World War II itself were major reasons for Russian becoming a common course in American colleges. Prior to 1940, there were less than twenty universities in America offering Russian language programs and less than fifty percent of those had a true Russian/Slavic department. Other tell-tale signs of the popularity of Russian in American schools can be demonstrated by the fact that there were only three Russian doctoral programs at the time of post World War II Europe. However, relations with the Soviet Union grew as a result of the war which also had the dramatic affect of increasing an interest in the Russian language. The war therefore increased the number of universities in the United States offering Russian to over one hundred ninety in the 1950's."
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African-American Vernacular English, 2005.
A discussion of the roots and future of African-American Vernacular English (AAVE).
1,458 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is the dialect of English used by most African-Americans in familiar and informal settings . Although the language spoken by African-Americans in different parts of the United States exhibits some regional variation, the dialect has fairly uniform characteristics. It has a well-formed grammar and an interesting, though controversial, history. Dismissed as 'bad English' by some, it has evoked considerable debate interest among academics and linguists many of whom recognize its importance, especially as a medium of instruction for the African-Americans. This paper explores the origins of AAVE, discusses whether the dialect is a creole, investigates its similarity with other creoles and examines its grammar.
From the Paper
"There is some controversy about the origin of AAVE. Some people believe that the Black people, who were brought to America as slaves, picked up English from the 'English-speaking' Southerners they came in contact with. The proponents of this theory, also known as the dialect hypothesis, note that the AAVE and the English spoken by the American Southerners have many features in common, such as the Southern Vowel Shift, vowel lowering, and double modals. (Sidnell, background) The theory contends that the white Southerners in the 17th century spoke a distinct "Virginian" dialect that had its origins in a family of regional dialects spoken in the south and west of England in counties such as Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Dorset, Devon, Wiltshire, Oxford and Gloucester during the 17th century. (Williams, 24) Although the use of such a dialect in polite conversation quickly disappeared in England by the end of the 18th century, most of its characteristics persisted in the American South. According to this theory, the 'incorrect' English picked up by the Blacks from the Southern whites was passed down through subsequent generations. In other words, this theory (also known as the 'dialect hypothesis') about the origins of AAVE contends that the present form of the dialect is simply "bad English" and has nothing to do with the native, Western African languages of the slaves. In answer to the question as to why this type of English does not currently exist among its originators, the proponents of this theory argue that most people avoid using "bad" English when they get educated. They contend that the Englishmen from the south and west counties of Britain and the white Southerners discontinued the use of such an 'incorrect' form of English after being educated; the African Americans continued to persist with such 'bad' as they did not benefit from similar education. (Ibid.)"
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Constitutional Analysis, 2004.
A linguistic analysis of a section from the beginning of the "United States Declaration of Independence".
1,011 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the linguistic analysis of specific words from a paragraph from the beginning of the "Declaration of Independence". The paper provides a definition for time orientation. The paper also analyzes the grammar and style of the excerpt. The paper examines what the general assessment of the document is regarding the American declaration and explores how it orients into culture.
From the Paper
"The Founding Fathers used powerful verbs like ike "hold," "secure," "institute," "alter," and "organizing" (Congress, 1776) to convey a message. It is almost as if they are taking a stand against the evil of the world. They did this knowing strong grammar would be essential in creating a foundation for freedom. When speaking of "what-if" scenarios like "government becomes destructive" or " it is the right" (Congress, 1776), the passive voice cannot help but be used. Still it used repetitiously to convey poetic rhythm and strength. Bold use of words makes this selection almost lyrical and captivates, mandates attention. Still the voice is based out of a solid religious belief of a Creator. Because the Creator is mentioned the style of the work can be considered Biblical or based on religious beliefs. Use of "endowed" implies that the Creator has provided to man. Also the phrase "government becomes destructive" alludes to outside forces like evil wreaking havoc. Use of the word "destructive" can also conjure imagery of the destruction of the Temple."
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Views on Language, 2005.
An analysis of George Orwell's "Politics and the English Language"and James Baldwin's "If Black English Isn't a Language, Then Tell Me What It Is".
783 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes and compares these two works by Orwell and Baldwin about language and how language serves as a tool that expresses more than just speech. The paper explains that, in Orwell's opinion, language is an instrument that reflects culture and evolves as culture declines, while in Baldwin's view, language emerges to fit a societal need.
From the Paper
"Both writers understand that language evolves and reflects society and culture. Orwell states that "language is a natural growth and not an instrument which we shape for our own purposes" (Orwell). In reference to African American language, Baldwin seems to support Orwell's assertion, adding that the role of language "reveals the speaker. Language also, far more dubiously, is meant to define the other--and in this case, the other is refusing to be defined by a language that has never been able to recognize him" (Baldwin). Both writers understand that language is a process that develops to express the personality of its culture."
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Psycholinguistics, 2005.
A look at the topic of language acquisition and how and when humans learn a language.
3,447 words (approx. 13.8 pages), 19 sources, APA, $ 97.95
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Abstract
This paper presents an overview of studies on language acquisition and the relevance of critical periods of learning. The paper reports on studies done on the brain and actual learning situations, which have shed light on this topic and the implications of these studies.
From the Paper
"The most concentrated period of language development is during the first three years of a human?s life when the brain is developing and maturing. The first stages of communication take place right after birth when an infant learns that a cry will bring responses such as nourishment. The newborns also start recognizing essential sounds in their immediate environments such as their parent?s voice. As they become older, children begin to learn the structure of their language. By six months of age, most recognize the basic sounds of their native language and are able to make simple repetitive sounds or phonemes such as ?ma ma? or ?ba ba.? By the age of two, they can form short sentences and recognize symbols such as pictures in a book. By three or four, they can clearly make themselves understood, understand concepts that are near them or out of sight, and even read a letter or two or short words (ibid)."
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?Alexander the False Prophet?, 2005.
An application of the ideas from Lucian?s ?Alexander The False Prophet? to modern-day religion.
803 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how the story of Lucian?s Alexander has many similarities to modern-day Christianity and how Christianity has been shown to have borrowed many ideas from other pagan religions in its infancy, so these correlations may or may not be coincidence. It looks at how the foundation of Christianity, Jesus Christ?s rebirth, is an almost identical story to the known religious scam established by Alexander, as described by Lucian.
From the Paper
"Lucian?s account was very scandalous and basically has condemned Alexander to remain forever in history as a religious swindler who simply purchased a large snake and then choose a group of people to scam. The ploy, as described by Lucian, was that Alexander and his cronies planted bronze tablets, created fake talking serpents and claimed that his serpent had descended to earth from a godly past. Lucian detailed how well thought out the plan was and how Alexander used official looking documentation and even baby snakes thought to be hatched from goose eggs to carry out his deceitful objectives. In effect, the scheme hatched by Alexander entailed advertising agents, tainted government officials and lie after lie which in turn fooled everyone. As P.T. Barnum pointed out, ?There?s one born every minute!""
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Noam Chomsky, 2005.
Synopsis of the life and career of Noam Chomsky.
1,698 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper begins with a brief biographical look at the life of linguist and philosopher, Noam Chomsky, and then proceeds to examine his contributions to both of these fields, the main theme of scientific realism evident in all of his work, and early influences on his political and social views.
Introduction
Influences
Linguistics
Ethics and Society
From the Paper
"Noam Chomsky?s contribution to linguistics and philosophy, as well as contemporary theoretical and political thought, is extensive. He received numerous awards and accolades, specifically for his work in linguistics. Chomsky was born in Philadelphia in 1928. As the son of Russian immigrants he was influenced by their belief in pacifism. His early education took place at a progressive school as well as at Philadelphia Central High school. He later attended the University of Pennsylvania where he studied mathematics, philosophy and linguistics. He completed his PhD in Linguistics in 1955 and was appointed Professor at the the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1976."
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Bilingual Policies, 2004.
An analysis of the option of official bilingualism in America.
1,344 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the phenomenon of bilingualism. The paper examines the Spanish-speaking, Puerto Rican population of America. The paper explores the option of the United States becoming officially bilingual. The paper presents several controversies that surround the issue of whether the United States should be officially bilingual or not.
From the Paper
"Americans can see some effects of bilingualism as official policy by looking at the packaging of many things sold in the United States, because much of that packaging already contains two languages -- English and French. This is because Canada is officially bilingual, and anything sold in Canada must be labeled in both languages. First examination of this marketing practice suggests that recognizing the presence of two languages in a country may be good for business, as people speaking both languages can shop with ease."
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Animal and Human Language, 2004.
This paper discusses that human and animal languages are not fundamentally different in type, but differ in degree.
1,745 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the three elements of language ? abstractness, grammar, and cultural ramifications ? are not unique to human language, but merely more advanced or merely more evident from our perspective than the language of animals. The author points out that chimps and parrots in laboratory settings seem capable of grasping abstract terms (such as ?mad? or ?bad? or ?blue?), generating new combinations of words to express new ideas, and referring to distant events or objects. The paper relates that animals may be more driven by instinct than by learned behavior, yet they show a propensity, in many cases, to learn language.
From the Paper
"Grammar is one of the strictest supposed differences between human and animal languages. Grammar involves the organization of discrete words into complex sentences that have specific required orders and syntaxes. Even human sign language tends to require certain specific syntaxes. While animals appear capable of understanding syntax, there is little evidence that they use it in communication (though it is difficult to prove a negative). According to one influential chimp research, Terrace, ?No chimpanzee has learned sign language. They?ve certainly learned some gestures, but sign language is not just a system of gestures. It?s a full, grammatical language with its own systematic grammar, like Latin.? The lack of grammar is evident in cases such as that of Koko, one of the stars of the talking-chimp movement."
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Logical Fallacies, 2004.
A look at the application of logical fallacies with three examples known as 'straw man', 'equivocation', and 'ad hominem'.
1,057 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
Logical fallacies are methods of argumentation or persuasion that, in simplest terms, look or sound good, but do not stand up to critical analysis. This paper explains that, although there are more, three very commonly used examples of logical fallacies are 'straw man', 'equivocation' and 'ad hominem'. It shows how these fallacies are frequently used to get people to agree to desired proposals or plans. They are often used when those doing the proposing either are not sure their facts are strong enough to get cooperation or those doing the proposing are sure that people will not agree because the proposals are not honest/necessary or useful to begin with.
From the Paper
"The straw man fallacy includes such approaches as stereotyping, caricaturing, name-calling, slanted language or deck-stacking. Basically the idea is to portray your opponent as weak so that your own arguments look stronger. Reporting the opposing views in overly simplified terms or in concepts that are absurd are relied on to make the opinion or position offered by those employing the technique, seem stronger and more sensible."
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Yiddish, 2004.
A study of the Yiddish language and its use today.
1,813 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the Yiddish language, which originated in Eastern Europe and was brought to the Western World towards the end of the 19th century. The writer includes a history of the language and shows which Yiddish words have become common used words in the English language today. Finally, the paper offers some data collected by a study at Columbia University about the dialect.
From the Paper
"The Yiddish dialect is commonly used in the American language. There are dozens of Yiddish words that have been assimilated into American slang speak. Yiddish has impacted American culture in a variety of ways. Yiddish culture, drama and writing influenced the American theatre scene and a large body of literary works through the early 1900s. It was in fact greatly popularized during this period of time, and many Yiddish playwrights and poets were well known and respected within the United States. However of late the press suggested that Yiddish is steadily declining within the United States, to the point of virtual extinction."
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