Topic 5

Language Diversity

The presence of multiple languages and dialects spoken within a community or country, reflecting cultural and ethnic variety.

Linguistic Diversity

Variation in the languages spoken within a geographical area or among a specific population.

Standard Australian English (SAE)

The dialect of English spoken by the dominant groups in Australian society, used in education, media, and government.

Aboriginal English (AE)

A dialect of English influenced by Aboriginal languages, Kriol, and contact with English speakers.

First Language (L1)

The native language of a person, typically acquired in early childhood.

Second Language (L2)

Any language learned after the first language is acquired.

Second Language Acquisition (L2A)

The process of learning a second language in addition to the first language.

Cultural Knowledge

Understanding and familiarity with the customs, beliefs, and practices of a specific culture.

Bilingualism

The ability to communicate effectively in two languages.

Code Switching

The practice of alternating between languages or language varieties in conversation.

Language Difference Hypothesis

All languages and dialects are equal in their ability to communicate effectively.

Language Deficit Hypothesis

Some varieties of language are considered inferior or less capable than others.

EAL/D Learners

Students whose first language is not English and who require additional support to develop English proficiency.

Pidgin

A simplified language that develops between speakers of different languages for the purpose of communication.

Creole

A stable, fully developed language that originates from a pidgin, used as the first language in a speech community.

Kriol

An Australian creole language that developed from pidgin and has unique grammatical structures.

Language Variation

Differences in language use based on social, regional, or contextual factors.

Appropriateness vs Correctness

The concept that language may be considered 'appropriate' based on context rather than strictly 'correct'.

Non-English Speaking Background (NESB)

Refers to individuals or families whose first language is not English.

Language Background Other Than English (LBOTE)

Refers to individuals or families whose background includes languages other than English.

First Language Acquisition (L1A)

The process by which children learn their native language.

Summary of Census Findings

Data shows increasing linguistic diversity in Australia and a decline in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander language usage at home.