This course aims to closely study the variation of language at all levels and how these variations are constructed by and construct identity and culture through examination of various discourses and the concepts of politics, society and culture in relation to language.

What is social linguistics? Social factors and language; Style / style / code / variety / dialect / linguistic repertory and speech structures; Standardization, lingua franca, pidgin and creole; Language selection: social factors, diglossia, Code modification / mixing, style variables and language reconciliation; Language and identity: formation of social identity; Social networks and language: language communities; Language and social class; Structures / word functions, intercultural communication; Gender and stereotype; Language and Media: gender and gender discrimination; Language, politics and ideology; Protection and change of language; Language assimilation and pluralism in language.