LL curricular implementation that encourages students to consider the power of language present within their own local communities has been scarce. Community-based LL learning “enhances learners’ ability to think creatively and analytically about how English is used in society and become more aware of their own socio-linguistic concept” (Sayer, 2010). In this presentation, I propose that expanding the LL lens to consider and value linguistic awareness as a transdisciplinary approach to English learning in local contexts creates a tangible environment for students to authentically uncover the impact of language representation on local public signs in understanding underlying social meanings and ideologies of the communities in which they live. In this presentation, a community-based LL project will be used as a guiding curricular resource. This framework will demonstrate how to foster students’ in-depth exploration of local, visual, and inherent ideological representations of the local LL. It creates a rich opportunity for high school and university level ESL students to develop their critical research skills and modes of inquiry through perceiving, reflecting, and acting on their own understandings of linguistic diversity and power within the local community. The presentation will provide: Sample activities for use in ESL classrooms that encourage learners to explore local linguistic diversity and to uncover the ways in which English becomes relevant to their own lives, and a guided introduction to technological tools appropriate for the instruction of LL as pedagogy.

Authors:
Bethany Martens Thangarajah, Otterbein University & The Ohio State University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Bethany Martens Thangarajah is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at The Ohio State University in United States

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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