43nd Annual Convention, Northeast Modern Language Association (NeMLA) March 15-18, 2012; Rochester, New York – Hyatt Rochester

The reality of language use, both in daily life and in literature, is strongly determined by non-standard varieties of languages. Regional, social or ethnic language varieties make up a large part of the spoken language and have important artistic functions in literature. However, they are rarely systematically utilized in teaching. The panel will examine how non-standard language can be utilized in a) the teaching of standard language in language classes, and b) the teaching of literature. In language teaching, the integration of non-standard language is important for, e.g., a realist representation of the target culture, authentic materials, cultural lessons on diversity and politics, and fostering language awareness. It can also be used to teach grammar and language history. In literature teaching, non-standard language plays a role, amongst others, in characterizing protagonists, creating atmosphere, describing social structures, expressing and constructing identities, and as a creative resource. Submit abstracts of maximum 300 words to Joerg Meindl, meindl@lvc.edu.

Deadline: September 30, 2011
Please include with your abstract:
Name and Affiliation
Email address
Postal address
Telephone number
A/V requirements (if any; $10 handling fee with registration)