Subject details

At the completion of this subject students will be able to:

  1. review the various socio-linguistic theories and how these relate to lived social reality
  2. identify the complexities and ambiguities surrounding key socio-linguistic concepts
  3. critique different socio-linguistic perspectives on language, language use and language learning
  4. examine a socio-linguistic topic of personal or professional interest
  5. infer and explain the contribution that socio-linguistic theories have made to language learning and teaching.
  • Topics
    • Language variety - World Englishes
    • Language style - genre, register, politeness, face
    • Language contact - codeswitching, code-meshing, diglossia and trans-languaging
    • Language contact - pidgins and creoles
    • Ethnicity, identity and language
    • Language and change - adolescent speech, computer-mediated communication
    • Language and gender
    • Language planning, policy and teaching - intercultural (transcultural) competence and citizenship
    • School as a socio-linguistic community
    • Language and power/social status - attitudes to language
    • Critical discourse studies
    • Language and thought - media and propaganda
  • Study resources
    • Instructional Methods
      • Audio/Video conferencing
      • Disscusion forum/Discussion Board
      • Embedded Multimedia
      • Online assignment submission
      • Podcasting/Leacture capture
      • Standard Media
      • Streaming Multimedia
      • Web links
    • Online Materials
      • Online Assessment
      • Resources and Links
      • FAQs
      • Audio-Video streaming

No eligibility requirements

Special requirements

  • EquipmentDetails - Audio/Visual equipment
  • OtherDetails -
    • Additional materials

This subject examines how language use is influenced by different socio-cultural, geographical, political and contextual factors. It examines the contribution of socio-linguistic theories to approaches to language teaching and learning.

Please Note: If it’s your first time studying a Curtin University subject you’ll need to complete their compulsory ‘Academic Integrity Program’. It only takes two hours to complete online, and provides you with vital information about studying with Curtin University. The Academic Integrity Program is compulsory, so if it’s not completed your subject grades will be withheld.

Find out more about the Academic Integrity module.

  • Assignment 1 - Short Answer Responses (40%)
  • Assignment 2 - Investigation Review (60%)

Textbooks are subject to change within the academic year. Students are advised to purchase their books no earlier than one to two months before the start of a subject.

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Related degrees

Postgraduate

Master of Education