Essay On Oral Language

The word Language has an array of meaning and purposes for individuals and throughout our society. Language can be described as a collective set of guidelines people mentally recall to enable us to communicate (Clark, as cited by Gee & Hayes, 2011, p. 6). Thus, written or oral language is a method of communication. Gee and Hayes, proceed to suggest that individuals communicate in varied ways (2011, p. 1). For example, the children raised diverse family units would acquire written and oral language skills of their ‘mother tongue’ before developing English as an additional Language (EAL). This is supported by Vygotsky’s principle that children acquire their language skills from the social engagement in their environment (Marsh, 2010, p. 47). Apart from written and spoken Language, other forms of communication

50). This can apply to classroom environments where some individuals may not be aware of the known language and the customs belonging to that culture. For example, some cultures do not practice the Christmas holidays, so may not be aware of the terms like Santa Claus or words to Christmas carols and the customary notion of gift giving. The consequence to consider in this instance, is the inferiority some children may feel, given they cannot fully participate as they are not accustomed to the cultural festivity or the language used in celebration. Emmitt explains the ‘Whorfian hypothesis’ as an individual’s perception of their society reflected from the language and culture encountered (2010, p. 54). Therefore, children from minority groups may experience feelings of inadequacy by comparison to their fellow students who are adept at the mainstream language and culture present. Thus, socio-cultural indifferences and conflicts continue throughout society where perceptions of some cultures are superior from