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English-Only Policies in the American Workplace, 2002.
Presents guidelines and suggestions for alternatives to the English-only policy in workplaces throughout the United States.
4,850 words (approx. 19.4 pages), 36 sources, APA, $ 123.95
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Abstract
The debate over whether or not English-only policies are justified in the American workplace is sure to continue; however, there is no clear-cut guidelines to determine whether or not a company should have an English-only policy. The best advice to date is to limit the implementation of an English-only policy unless there is a clear business necessity that presents justification for having one. This paper presents an overview of the English-only debate in the United States, including background information and arguments made by proponents and opponents. The paper closes with a set of guidelines for organizations deciding to either maintain or implement English-only policies and recommended alternatives to English-only policies in the American workplace.
From the Paper
"English-only is an extremely broad term. For the purposes of this paper English-only policies are the entire spectrum of language policies enforced in the workplace that either promote the usage of English or restrict the usage of non-English languages in some way. In the broader English-only debate there are other terms used to differentiate the specific type of policies enforced. In governmental legislation, an English-only law would be a law allowing ??only?? English usage and no usage of other languages. On the contrary, an Official English policy or law would make English the official language of use, but not restrict the usage of languages other than English. The fact that many individuals involved in English-only debates are using the same terminology to refer to different types of policies adds to the confusion. It also helps explain why, in the court rulings, it is almost impossible to provide a clear definition of why certain policies are legal and others are illegal (Hoffman, 2001, p. 3). In the United States, neither the constitution nor the federal law codifies English as the nation??s official language (Santoro, 1999, p. 890). So contrary to belief of many, English is not the official language of the United States. However, twenty-three states have active Official English statutes and others are pending (Crawford, 2002). But even these statutes vary enormously. Some state statutes simply declare English as the official language of the state in sort of a symbolic gesture; much the same way state birds are named (American Civil Liberties Union, 2002). Other states, such as Arizona, which has the, ??the most restrictively worded official-English law?? (Arington, 1991), take their statutes much more seriously. Some state and local language laws have gone as far as to restrict the governments from providing emergency services such as police lines in non-English languages (American Civil Liberties Union, 2002)."
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The Significance of Language in Human History, 2003.
Examines how spoken and written languages have influenced the progression of human history and ethnic development.
2,450 words (approx. 9.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper emphasize different aspects of language that show it to be an important factor in human history, using the history of the English language as an example. The paper delves deep into the roots of the English language and, point by point, shows that language was crucial in the development of the history of humanity.
From the Paper
"There were several historic events that brought on these changes. One was the work of Shakespeare, who has become a key player in the relating of the history of the English language. Another was the invention of printing, which helped to unify the language under a common reading and writing system, which led to a somewhat unified speaking system. Early Modern English then later on turned into Present Era English, which was helped along and distinguished by several things. First the publication of English dictionaries again helped to unify the language as a whole (Roberts 429). Also the development of an English grammar system, which allowed for a somewhat uniform way of teaching English to children and preserving the language as well (Roberts 429)."
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Cooperative Learning and English Language Learners, 2004.
Presents an overview of why cooperative learning strategy is a preferred instructional strategy in linguistically diverse classrooms.
4,062 words (approx. 16.2 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 109.95
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Abstract
This research paper begins with an introduction to cooperative learning strategy. The author then chose three articles that show how research over the years examine the way cooperative learning in bilingual classrooms benefits limited English proficient students and what activities teachers can integrate in classrooms in order to meet the needs of diverse language learners. The summary of the articles is followed by a discussion, specific examples of the implications for classroom practice, and ways that one can apply theory to practice.
From the Paper
"It is a challenge today for educators to meet the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse students. Yet, cooperative learning instructional strategy is found to be one of the most effective ways to promote successful academic achievement, language acquisition, and social development for English language learners. When classroom activities are meaningful, interesting, and relevant, learning is occurring at every level. In successfully organized groups, language minority students will gain proficiency in English, and their native language."
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Origins of New English Words, 2002.
This paper is a research project that studies recent additions to the English language, the word formation processes, and the general subject areas to which these new words belong.
970 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper reports that, to get a representative sample of new words, all 101 entries in the T, U, and V sections of the Oxford Dictionary of New Words, published in 1997, were used as a sample. The author states that the sample reveals a very low degree of borrowing from other languages; instead, internal word formation processes, such as compounding, semantic change, derivation, and abbreviation are used to form the new words. The paper concludes that, as long as English is a dominant global language, it is unlikely that this trend towards internal coinage in favor of borrowing will change.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Method
Results
Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Instead, compounding was used to form the majority (40%) of the new words in the sample. These were often adjective-noun or noun-noun compounds such as ?tight building syndrome? and ?theme park?. This process produces words that are usually self-evident in a simple, logical manner, and it is hardly surprising that it is as frequently used in the formation of new words today as it has been throughout the history of the language.Derivation processes were used to form about 12% of the sample. As well as existing affixes being attached to existing words (?tankie?), a number of new prefixes and suffixes such as ?-ware? and ?techno-? were attached to pre-existing words to create new lexical items (?technobabble?)."
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Babel: History or Myth, 2004.
This is an expository essay, comparing and contrasting the story of the Tower of Babel vs. the evolution of language, with a specific concenration on the English language.
1,459 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This essay begins with a quotation taken from the Bible, describing the story of the Tower of Babel. It then proceeds to break down language, from its origins through its evolution down to modern times. It attempts to portray that although Babel is a myth, its premise is true-all language and thus people were cut from essentially the same cloth.
From the Paper
?And the Lord said, ?Indeed the people are one and they all have one language, and this is what they begin to do; now nothing that they propose to do will be withheld from them. Come, let Us go down and there confuse their language, that they may not understand one another?s speech.?? (Genesis 11:6-7) It is the humans? ability to communicate through spoken word which differentiates us from our primitive counterparts. The legend of Babel identifies language as the tie that binds a society together and denotes a direct correlation between language and the advancement of a particular society. According to tradition, after the Lord destroyed the world by flood, the sons of Noah, who spoke one language and who were descendants of the same origin, were given the task to repopulate the earth. Perpetually plagued by the sins of Adam, they were driven to build a tower so great that they themselves would be seen as gods. Therefore the Lord debilitated them by removing their ability to communicate with one another, which forced them to diverge into separate, distinct societies. Although the story grossly over simplifies both the complex history of man and the evolution of language, its premise does have some merit. Popular modern languages can be traced ancestrally to a few families. Furthermore, languages that have survived - English as the most prominent example - are considerably indebted to the influence of the powerful societies that spoke them."
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Cultural Constraints of Written Discourse, 2003.
A discussion of the different experiences faced by writers and language professionals based on cultural differences.
7,530 words (approx. 30.1 pages), 19 sources, MLA, $ 165.95
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Abstract
The project addresses not only the cultural assumptions that are involved in texts used in language teaching, but also the kinds of cultural knowledge and skills that are required by language learners for comprehending and interpreting these texts. The paper looks at the way we conceptualize the world and how it seems to acquire some language-and-culture specific features. The project focuses not only on the different conceptualization of knowledge and experience of the world within different cultures, but also on the way it is fixed in language.
Contents:
General Introduction
Theoretical Assumptions
Practical Implications
Method
Data Analysis
Results and Discussion
References
From the Paper
"The variety of interpretations of culture and its relationship to language is a theme of continuing and possibly endless debate. Generally speaking, language is not transparent and neutral. It is a site in which beliefs, values and points of view are produced, encoded and contested. Language thus reflects culture, and language and culture are inseparable. Sherzer (1987) views language as cultural and claims that it is language use in discourse that creates, recreates and modifies culture."
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Russian Formalism and Translation Studies Scholars, 2004.
Examines and compares two translation methodologies, Russian Formalism and the Translation Studies Scholars.
1,091 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a contrast study of these two translation theories and focuses on their fundamental theoretical assumptions in regard to translations. The contrast also includes a critical analysis of the translation theories. This paper shows that both the Russian Formalist Movement and the Translation Studies Scholars concurred that an ideal translation was supposed to be accurate and consistent as to the receptor language.
From the Paper
"These formalists attempted to isolate and define what they called literariness. They focused upon the things they saw as literary facts. They simply separated literary artifacts from other disciplines like psychology, sociology and cultural history. They literally treated books as being human and in a sense having a life of its own and from that aimed to distinguish what was different. In a new text for example, they worked to see the things that made the text new, creative or innovative."
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Language as Tradition and Experience, 2004.
Examines the concept of language as tradition and experience in discourses by Chang-Rae Lee, Dennis Baron, and Amy Tan.
1,003 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
Language as a tradition and experience illustrates the holistic effect of language to individuals. In the field of social psychology, it is posited that language determines thought, and this hypothesis, called the theory of linguistic relativity, is proposed by Benjamin Whorf and Edward Sapir. The theory shows how language determines people?s perceptions of their social realities as experienced and related to within their society. Chang-Rae Lee ("Mute in an English-Only World"), Dennis Baron ("Don?t Make English Official-Ban it Instead"), and Amy Tan ("Mother Tongue") confront this issue in discourses on language as tradition and experience. This paper provides a comparative analysis of the authors? works and arguments about language and its function and meaning for the individual and society.
From the Paper
"Baron uses the academic approach in portraying English as a tradition, a functional system of codes that enables people to interact with each other in the society. Using this as his primary thesis, Baron argues that English should not be implemented as the country?s national language, since ?it?s hardly even English anymore.? The hybridization of English in America is the result of the assimilation of other languages of people with various nationalities who immigrate and live in America. Because of the emergence of hybrid, pseudo-American languages, it cannot be possible to determine the ?purity? of English as a language anymore. Thus, implementing English per se defeats the purpose of language for society?that is, to let people interact and understand each other. However, Baron?s argument does not conclude definitively, since as he confesses, ?there is no obvious candidate? that would be fitting to become an alternative to English. Thus, Baron?s arguments is halted and brought to a standstill, since his arguments against the language pertains only to its function as tradition, and not as an argument against English as a language experienced by its users."
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English as an Official Language, 2003.
Deals with English becoming an official language of the United States.
1,335 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
Using Samuel Ichiye Hayakawa's article, "Bilingualism in America: English Should Be the Only Language", this paper examines the issue of bilingualism in the United States. The paper discusses both ideas for and against the debate. It also examines the methods that Hayakawa uses to attract his readers to his views, including repetition, emotion, and ethics.
From the Paper
"With everyone in America having their own opinion on this issue, the author tries to rally more people on to his side with this essay. He uses several techniques in this essay to make his point. He persuades his audience successfully by using repetitions, examples, emotions, logic and ethics. By listing certain background information, such as his past government positions and his past residency, he makes himself a reliable source for information pertaining to language. He also uses examples for and against his position to his advantage to make his point. If English is made the official language of the United States, Samuel Hayakawa makes the audience believe that they will be a more stable and flourishing country."
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Tarski?s T Schema, 2004.
This is an analysis of Alfred Tarski?s T schema and how it defines languages as true or false.
2,514 words (approx. 10.1 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 76.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the theory of Alfred Tarski, which he published in 1936 called "Wahrheitsbegriff". It explains how he investigates the schema of colloquial language and formal language to prove whether such language usage is true in its context and logic or not. It discusses how theorists challenged Tarski's controversial equation, which he presents as his T schema for proving statements/ sentences true. It also states that most theorists disagree with this T schema "p" is true if p.
From the Paper
"Tarski presumes that the rule for this equation is true if p is proven false. To achieve the desired result, he put forward the condition that in the T schema if a sentence is S then p is a replica or in another word S= p. However p will have to be untrue for S to be true. In formal language he perceives that correctness means that there is no ambiguity of truthfulness or untruthfulness of the existence of a sentence/phrase. Inconsistency according to him exists when the parts of the sentence does not conform to the object of the sentence (Tarski 1944)."
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Bilingual Libraries for ESOL Students, 2004.
This paper discusses the benefits of providing bilingual, fiction, reading materials to Spanish/English ESOL students.
1,325 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This study focuses on the importance of having a well-developed, bilingual fiction collection in school libraries to support, enhance, and motivate the English as a Second Language (ESOL) student population. The writer believes that by having a bilingual selection of fiction material available in school libraries from the elementary level on will encourage the ESOL student population to read and learn English more swiftly without causing them to lose their motivation and general interest in reading. The writer asserts that, currently, the educational system supporting ESOL students lacks sensitivity of approach and consideration for what students actually desire to read.
From the Paper
"Many students gain experience of the English language from experiences acquired outside of the classroom. Therefore it is important to provide students with opportunities to select materials to read for pleasure and learning outside of the classroom. These materials should be diverse in nature and representative of the unique population ESOL students represent. It is crucial while still young that student's gain a liking for and desire for reading. Acquiring reading comprehension skills is crucial to successful attainment of fluency in any language. Fiction materials provided to students within the library in both their native language and English will allow students to learn English in a non-pressure, exciting manner that corresponds directly to their likes and interests. Providing such materials also sends a message to students that their individual choices and desires are respected. This in turn will lead to higher sense of self esteem and interest, and further motivate students to continue reading and practicing their English speaking abilities inside of and outside of the classroom."
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Yiddish in Jewish Society, 2004.
A look at the use of Yiddish in Orthodox Jewish communities today.
5,565 words (approx. 22.3 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 135.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the use of Yiddish as a first language in Ultra-Orthodox Jewish communities compared to the use of the local vernacular. It examines how one hypothesis often put forward to explain this is the history of modernization in the Jewish faith as a whole, and the effects this had on the use of the vernacular among different Haredim. It explores the daily patterns of the use of the vernacular by different groups of Orthodox Jews (Haredim) in various places, including London, Philadelphia, and Israel. The paper also looks at the effects that outside pressures have on the use of Yiddish and on issues of identity for Jews, in general, and includes reflections upon the issue of the use of Yiddish by Orthodox Jews in more general sociological terms, in terms of language and ethnicity, the use of language to determine group identity, and the use of language to define religious identity.
Outline
Summary
Introduction
Chapter 1: The Sociology of Language
Chapter 2: The Adoption of Yiddish by Orthodox Jewish Communities
Chapter 3: The Use of the Yiddish vs. the Vernacular Amongst Orthodox Jewish Communities
Chapter 4: Conclusions
From the Paper
"Yiddish was used, but was not, however, liked, by the majority of Jews. Yiddish language books of ritual or religious significance were banned until the 18th century. By the 20th century, however, Yiddish was an article of faith for many Eastern European Jews, which was seen as a new threat to the non-Yiddish speaking Jews; the Orthodox defenders of Yiddish, however, continued to see Yiddish as a glorious and romanticized language, which left the Hissidic Orthodox Jews to reign uncontested in Eastern Europe. This fervour became tied in to the diaspora cultural-autonomist pro-Yiddish movement which developed in the Eastern European countries, in response to the increasing threats from Nazism and Communism."
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