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Linguistic Expressions, 2002.
Linguistic expressions of shame and respect in Malagasy and Guugu Yimidhirr.
1,150 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 5 sources, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper shows that the languages of Malagasy and Guugu Yimidhirr are different and from different areas. The paper explains that they have a similar form of linguistic expression created through socialization and the acculturation of their societies over time.
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Slang, 2002.
A paper that defines the term slang.
650 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 4 sources, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper defines and explains the term slang, going on to give a few commonly used slang expressions spoken in the American culture. The paper in some detail defines the American slang, 'dude', giving its meaning, origin and usage.
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Aviation Jargon, 2002.
A look at the evolution of the jargon used in military aviation and its relevance outside the organization.
1,150 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 6 sources, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper examines and analyzes jargon used in military aviation in terms of the pros and cons of the jargon, how it has evolved, how one acquires jargon, whether additions are made frequently, and whether aspects of the jargon have been applied outside the organization.
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Language and Mathematics, 2002.
A comparison between mathematical statements and language structures.
650 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 3 sources, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This essay talks about the similarity between mathematical statements and language structures. What is essential to both is that there are fixed rules which determine what mathematical symbols have meaning and what do not. Language also functions in a similar way. As Keith Devlin states, all languages are variations on a single theme (Devlin 7). Thus, Both mathematics and language are governed by particular rules that are syntactically or structurally similar.
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Ebonics, 2002.
A look at the importance of the language Ebonics.
650 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 1 source, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This essay looks at the debate about Ebonics. Ebonics is a language with its own rules, and not slang or inferior English. Acknowledging, recognizing and understanding Ebonics could help the teaching process and make it easier for students to learn Standard English.
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The Word Length Effect, 2002.
Compares the explanations provided by two models regarding the word length effect.
1,025 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 2 sources, $ 39.95
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Abstract
The word length effect is a phenomenon that involves a human being's capacity to recall short words better than long words. Words that take less time to pronounce, therefore, are more easily remembered. There are two well-developed explanations of the word length effect. These are Baddeley's working memory model (WMM) and Nairne's feature model. This paper compares the predictions of each view concerning interactions between word length and irrelevant speech.
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" McTeague", 2002.
Discussion of the central theme in Frank Norris' novel "Mc Teague" and the role sexuality plays in the expression of the theme.
1,025 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 1 source, $ 39.95
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Abstract
Sexuality is not a central theme in Frank Norris's novel "McTeague". So although sexuality does have a role to play in "McTeague", it is a comparatively minor one. The most important part for sexuality and the way Norris portrays it is as a sort of signpost or illumination to the grander passions of avarice and revenge that drives the central narrative.
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Study Of Linguistics, 2002.
An overview of the linguistic concepts of "commutation" and "complementary distribution".
1,150 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 2 sources, $ 44.95
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Abstract
Explains the concepts "commutation" and "complementary distribution" and illustrates their use in grammatical analysis.
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'A Wrinkle In Time', 2002.
A critical analysis of Madeleine L?Engle's novel.
340 words (approx. 1.4 pages), 0 sources, $ 17.95
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Abstract
?A Wrinkle in Time?, by Madeleine L?Engle does not present all the aspects of a fantasy novel, however, it does employ many. The novel demonstrates both fantastical and science-fictional facets. These subjects are analyzed and placed into their respective genres. Theme, setting and language are examined and deconstructed. Examples are also given to show appropriate genre.
From the Paper
"Furthermore the struggle is an attribute common to fantasy and it is shown in this book with Meg and the group fighting, and eventually destroying IT. Even though the quest is purely fantasy there are elements of science fiction present in the theme. The way the group travelled through outer space is a feature of science fiction. Also the concept of IT, the pulsating brain, controlling the people of Camazotz, and ?The Black Thing? fit into the realm of science fiction."
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Ebonics: A Language in Derision, 2001.
A discussion of both sides of the Ebonics debate and the controversy surrounding it.
952 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper delves into the heart of the Ebonics debate through reference to Baugh's essay, "A Contentious Global Debut." It focuses on the national and global contention surrounding Ebonics by citing the historical, political and technological influences involved in the development of Standard American English. It looks at how black supporters of Ebonics generally feel that acknowledging Ebonics as a legitimate language or dialect will improve the learning productivity rate of African American students. It also examines how detractors of Ebonics do not feel that Ebonics is a legitimate language or dialect and have consistently attempted to thwart all efforts of legitimizing the language due to its supposed lack of ?educational benefits?.
From the Paper
"Prior to the 1996 Oakland, California school board controversy, few people had ever heard the term Ebonics. Of those who were familiar with the term, very few knew the actual origin and definition of the word. ?Many of the black supporters of Ebonics were aware of the term long before the Oakland school board introduced it into the global lexicon.? In Baugh?s ?A Contentious Global Debut,? he discusses the ?interpretive diversity? surrounding the educational, political, and economic views on Ebonics when it first became a subject of national concern."
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Bilingualism and First Language Loss, 2003.
This paper discusses the linguistic phenomena of bilingualism and first language loss and presents suggestions for advocating multilingual education.
5,115 words (approx. 20.5 pages), 23 sources, APA, $ 128.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that bilinguals are not inferior to monolinguals in any way; however, there still exist various stereotypes against bilinguals, which range from the claim by professions, such as speech therapists and medical doctors, that hearing two or more languages in childhood causes language disorder and language delay to the idea that bilinguals are slow learners and are losers in life. The paper reports that in order to fit themselves into school and society, some young bilinguals begin to learn English and, as soon as they have learned barely enough to get by, use their home languages less and less until they gradually lose it totally: This phenomenon is first language loss. The author stresses that first language loss is not a ?necessary or inevitable outcome? when children acquire a second language.
Table of Content
Introduction
Bilingualism
Types of Bilingualism
Studies on Bilingualism
First Language Loss
Process of First Language Loss
Consequences of First Language Loss
Fostering a Positive Linguistic Environment
Conclusion
From the Paper
"From these accounts, it is apparent that two major consequences of first language loss lie on family relationship and the crises of self-image and cultural identity. As far as family relationship is concerned, there is a lot of ?shame, anger, frustration, and embarrassment attached to the loss of a first language?. To the individuals, a negative self-image was common, resulting either from coming from non-English speaking families or being an outsider of their own ethnic group. At the same time, these people are usually haunted by the uncertainty of their own identity, because they are unable to identify themselves with either their home language culture or the dominant English culture. Besides, along the process of growing up into monolinguals in English, they were all neglected, isolated, and despised in one way or another. Life has been a constant struggle to them simply because they happen to have been born into non-English speaking families."
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Second Language Acquisition (SLA) Theories, 2003.
A comparison of theories pertaining to second language acquisition (SLA).
2,189 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 68.95
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Abstract
Second Language Acquisition is a field of inquiry that abounds in theories, while at the same time no single approach has adequately explained how language acquisition takes place. One reason for this might be that linguists interested in SLA have been trained in different disciplines, such as linguistics, psycholinguistics, sociolinguistics and neurolinguistics. The paper explains that, naturally, they have approached SLA from very different perspectives and treat all the variables involved in the learning process differently. The situation appears to be very confusing and frustrating. All the present theories, hypotheses, and models are all preliminary work done toward the ultimate goal of a true theory. The paper shows that in this sense, the different approaches taken by linguists and researchers are never worthless. They have uncovered bits and pieces of the whole complexity of language acquisition. Hopefully, the continuing and combined efforts made by linguists and researchers will lead to the ultimate success of establishing the true theory in language acquisition as well as in SLA.
From the Paper
"Linguistics is one of the newest fields of scientific inquiry. It was developed into an independent discipline of social science in the United Sates first ?as an offshoot of anthropology? in the first half of the twentieth century in an attempt to investigate into the disappearing American indigenous languages (Lakoff, 2000, p. 2-3). Traditionally, it has been concerned with the analysis of language, namely its phonology, morphology and syntax. Following this tradition, Norm Chomsky in the 1950s put forward his milestone transformational generative grammar (TGG), which assumed ?an ideal speaker-listener, in a completely homogeneous speech-community? unaffected by any external factors in his exploration of the Universal Grammar (UG), the general rules of language (Chomsky, 1965, p.3). This is basically an asocial or theoretical view in linguistic studies as opposed to the social view which claims knowing a language also means ?knowing how to use that language?(Wardhaugh, 2002, p.3) in social contexts. Adopting either or both of the two views, linguistics and researchers alike have postulated a multitude of theories, approaches, and models in the inquiry into the nature of language and language acquisition, which appear to be conflicting ones fighting against one another."
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Roland Barthes and Language Theory, 2002.
Examines the structuralist semiotic theory of sociologist Roland Barthes.
1,676 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
In Roland Barthes' structuralist semiotic approach to sociology, it is clear that much insight into the character of society and culture can be derived by linguistic analogy. The paper shows that Barthes develops the view that language has a dual function that is public, available for all to see in a social context on one hand and on the other a psychological, i.e., private or imaginative, function. Creative and imaginative processes are associated with the impulse to respond to and express or interpret the public or social meanings that are made in and by language in its cultural function. The paper shows that much of what the individual experiences as either social or personal begins with language--identity, features of experience, narrative, communication with others and so on.
From the Paper
"Thus Barthes looks at how linguistic forms, whether advertisements, art, rhetoric, or forms of social organization that function as communication, are actually used, with a view toward showing how their function indicates or signifies meaning for the (personal and private) experience of society. In other words, Barthes is looking at what social, public expressions intend to accomplish, with a view toward exposing the truth of or agenda behind those communicative processes. Signs and symbols, including language but also images, art, sounds, and so on, are the media of communication. The signs may be psychological or physical or both, and either manifestly or by way of some kind of code meant to convey (or conceal) meaning, these signs (signifiers) refer to or stand for (signify) some thing. The semiotic sociology, then, seeks to account for, or so to speak "decode," what is seen or expressed overtly. It is necessary because all linguistic designations come from somewhere."
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Scientific Method, 2002.
This paper defines and analyzes the tenants of the scientific method, a procedure for the empirical investigation of a problem.
827 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
According to the paper, the procedure includes observation, deduction and research question development, hypothesis formation and experimental testing. The writer illustrates how employing the scientific method consists of seven steps-- observation; idea; logic, major and minor premise; hypothesis, necessary conclusion; hypothesis testing and experimental design; data evaluation; and results interpretation.
From the Paper
"Step four, hypothesis with necessary conclusion, involves the development of a testable hypothesis. When the hypothesis is generated, valid selection criteria must be used. This criteria includes the following: multiple working hypotheses, with a minimum of null and principle hypotheses; objectivity; presentation which seeks to gain knowledge rather than to presume outcome; falsifiability, hypotheses must be susceptible to adverse developments; consideration of the most parsimonious hypothesis when multiple equal ones are given; and the hypothesis must be logically valid (Gastaldo, 1999, pp. 1-2)."
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Profanity for the 21st Century, 2003.
A paper supporting the use of profanity in modern America. Looks into the origins and current status of profane words and proves their harmlessness.
2,020 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses America's progressing desensitization to profanity and argues that this trend is not a bad thing. By comparing profane language from the past to modern usage, as well as using examples from television and movies, the author proves that it could be possible for the idea of bad words to be erased and replaced with the idea of bad connotation alone. Specific emphasis on the word ?fuck?. The paper includes a graph.
From the Paper
"?Fuck [taboo]: v.t. To cheat, trick, take advantage of, deceive, or treat someone unfairly. Very common?? (Wentworth, 203-4) This is just around one-tenth of the definition of the word ?fuck? from Harold Wentworth?s Dictionary of American Slang. An interesting point to be taken from this partial definition is the seemingly paradoxical inclusion of both the ?[taboo]? tag for the word and the phase ?Very common.? Can a word really be taboo (forbidden/unmentionable) if it is in ?very common? usage? Apparently it can. There are a huge amount of taboo ?bad? words in the English language, words that are spoken with relative freedom but censored from media and prohibited in schools. This censorship, however, has been rapidly losing its importance in American society, with movies, television and everyday conversations becoming more accepting of these curse words that were once so feared. Many censorship activists say that this lax attitude toward profanity is a sign of the decline of American society, and that steps must be taken to set the United States back on track to being a less offensive country. I say, ?Fuck that.? Despite the negative connotation in which I just used the word, ?fuck? and other profane words can be used with positive connotations, and thus it is not truly the words themselves that are disagreeable, but the connotation with which they are used. The desensitization of America to profanity is not a bad thing; it is possible, if trends continue, for the idea of bad words to be almost completely demolished and replaced by the idea of bad connotation."
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The Bonobo Ape, 2002.
Examines language, memory and planning in the bonobo ape.
13,987 words (approx. 55.9 pages), 32 sources, MLA, $ 249.95
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Abstract
This paper is in two parts. The first part reviews and summarizes past work in ape language research, including the Gardners' work with the chimp Washoe, Francine Patterson's work with Koko the gorilla, Lyn Miles's work with Chantek the orangutan and Sue Savage-Rumbaugh's work with bonobos and chimps. The second part is a proposal for an experiment to teach American Sign Language to a group of bonobos and then use these communicative abilities to test their memory and planning abilities. It includes descriptions of bonobo behavior in the wild and captivity, an argument for gestural language as the first human language and a description of the means of teaching and testing the bonobos in the proposed experiment. The paper includes a table and illustrations.
From the Paper
"During the Oligocene epoch of the Tertiary period, a small monkey-like creature lived in the rainforest trees in central Africa. About thirty million years ago, this primate ancestor diverged into two distinct species; one would father the line of Old World monkeys, including baboons and macaques. The other would become the predecessor of modern apes and humans. Around twenty-two million years ago gibbons split away from that line and formed a branch known as the lesser apes. Six or seven million years later, orangutans too diverged from the ape lineage and migrated to the Asian islands of Sumatra and Borneo, where they remained highly arboreal. Another eight or nine million years passed, during which this ape line began to spend more time on the ground, and gorillas split off to become their own species. Two million years more went by, bringing us to the Pliocene epoch, which began about five million years ago. It was at this crucial point in evolutionary history that our ancestors and the ancestors of modern chimpanzees and bonobos took different paths, the former leading to bipedality, ground-based life, and hominization, the latter eventually splitting into two more distinct species about three million years ago, both of whom would remain remarkably similar to us physically, behaviorally, emotionally, and intellectually (Goodall, Hook, Leakey, Linden 1992)."
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Independent Subsystems in Human Memory, 2002.
An examination of how English and Urdu letters of the alphabet are served by independent systems in human memory.
2,838 words (approx. 11.4 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 84.95
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Abstract
This paper describes an experiment to examine the systems of the human memory responsible for language processing. It is designed to show how visual information is stored in a visual spatial sketchpad that is involved in manipulating visuo-spatial images. The experiment explores the average storage capacity of this spatial pad and the number of subsystems that might be involved in the processing of various languages. Once verified it establishes a firm ground for comprehension of how languages are processed.
From the Paper
"Long term memory is the capacity store that can store large amounts of information up to long periods of time. Long term memory is used in this experiment for the storage of letters because it has a larger capacity and items entered in the LTM have a bigger retention interval. Short term memory can store up to 5 to 7 letters and hence for the encoding and retrieval of 12 to 13 letters, LTM has to be employed."
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Archaeology of Language Origins, 2000.
This paper gives an archaeological perspective on the origins of language. The writer employs graphs and photographs to trace the source of language in the human brain.
2,922 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 48 sources, MLA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
The paper looks to answer the following questions: Can apes or any other non-humans use symbols or language? How does our understanding of the relationship between mind and brain help us to investigate which fossil hominins first used language? What do we know of the brains of fossil hominins and the constraints on brain size increase? What is language ?as we know it??
From the Paper
"A symbol is considered to be something that ?stands for something else? (Davidson & Noble 1993). Davidson and Noble also suggest a second criterion, that is, symbols as accepted by social custom or convention. A ring worn on a finger can symbolize marriage, (although the social convention varies within groups of people) and is an example containing both criteria. The second criterion cited above stems from Wittgenstien?s ?private language argument?."
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Language Games, 2002.
Discusses Ludwig Wittgenstein's idea of sensation.
1,575 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 6 sources, $ 55.95
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Abstract
Discusses Ludwig Wittgenstein's idea of sensation. Linkage of the sensations (art, aesthetics, religion) as individual sensations linked by language. Idea that language is unexact means of describing the senses. Language games as semantics. The language of aesthetics. Wittgenstein's exercises. Wittgenstein's theories and changing concept of language games. Notion of human culture.
From the Paper
"LANGUAGE GAMES
INTRODUCTION AND THESIS:
Wittgenstein separates the idea of a sensation with that of a word to describe it. How often, for example, have we heard someone say "I feel; your pain!" which, as Wittgenstein would be prompt to point out, is impossible. The sensations, art, aesthetics, and religion are individual sensations, with a communal linkage called "language". But, compared to one's sensations, language is the most inexact means of describing what one feels or senses.
People, as Wittgenstein theorizes, "cannot be said to learn of my sensations only from my behaviour, for I cannot be said to learn of them-I have them" (Wittgenstein, 1953, p. 89). On the other hand, this sort of "investigation" of sensations makes Wittgenstein ask whether "..."
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