Response to practice questions
READ THE extract below, then answer the questions that follow:
1. Comment on the different ways that the clerk and Tantie use language
The clerk uses standard English, while Tantie uses a non-standard variety of english. The clerk is a government worker having a meeting in an official office. This makes the context formal and his use of the standard English appropriate. Tantie, on the other hand, is an old market vendor. Her use of what could be described as ‘mesolect’ is, perhaps, as a result of the setting of the meeting and the seriousness of the matter being discussed.
The clerk uses words such as ‘little matter’ and ‘snug and nice’ in the passage, which are meant to put her at ease and avoid confrontation. However, in the end when he suggests that they will have to move ‘the old girl’ bodily, this is in contrast to the attitude he showed before.
Tantie, on the other hand, uses her formal tone and language to show her unwillingness to relocate. When she says ‘thank you’ and falls into silence, it is clear the discussion has ended for her. She is dissatisfied with his proposal and will not be convinced to do otherwise.
2. Discuss the various social factors that could be responsible for the tension in the interaction they have.
It is clear the two have opposing agendas: Tantie is intent on keeping her house, while the clerk intends to relocate her in order for a new road to be built.
Although they are familiar with each other, the roles are different and they are now at different levels of maturity.
She knows that she is being marginalised because of her social rank, while the clerk is intent on carrying out his job (of removing her).
In the Caribbean, it is normal for politicians to use Creole during election campaigns when they move from district to district. However, when they become government ministers, they typically make their speeches in the standard language. 1. Give two reasons why politicians may use TWO language varieties. While campaigning, they may use Creole to bond/identify with the people they hope will vote for them.
As ministers of government, they see their roles as more formal. Sometimes they no longer see the need to identify with the people (who voted for them).
2. (a) Identify ONE other group of persons who use the TWO different varieties in their spoken language. Teachers; ministers of religion; newscasters; government officials (b) For the group identified in (a) above, state the context in which EACH of the TWO varieties might be used. Creole: Conversing with family/friends in the staffroom, at home, etc.
ACTIVITY
(See cartoon) Standard English: Classroom; at the pulpit; making a public broadcast; in Parliament.
1. In advising Paul against using too much Creole in the valedictory address, what point is Ron making about language and setting?
Standard English should be used in formal settings, while Creole should be used in informal settings. The setting and context (for example, the occasion) should determine the choice of language used.