In-Depth Notes on Final Paper and Course Structure

Overview of Final Paper Topics
  • Geopolitical Focus: Students can explore any geopolitical area and its sociolinguistic issues.
  • Sample Topics:
    • Role of Japanese language in Korea and language discrimination issues.
    • Languages of South Africa in the context of post-apartheid.
    • Status of African American English in the US, including various colloquial names for it.
    • Influence of the Internet and social media on US language change.
    • Revival of dead languages, e.g., Hebrew.
    • Language rights in the EU and analysis of numerous official languages.
Languages of the European Union
  • Diverse Languages: EU has about 25 official languages with English as the prominent one.
  • Language Politics:
    • France and Germany advocate for multilingualism in EU governance, especially post-Brexit.
    • Tension exists around the dominance of English versus other languages.
Bilingualism and Language Discrimination
  • US Context:
    • Bilingualism in the US and Canada raises questions about language support and discrimination.
    • Case study of Waukegan, IL: Proposal to declare English as the official language raises concerns from the Spanish-speaking community.
  • Language in a Multicultural Society:
    • Implications for communities speaking languages other than English, such as Polish immigrants in Chicago.
Official Language Movements in the US
  • Executive Orders and State Laws: Movements to establish English as the official language; some localities already implemented such laws.
  • Educational Access:
    • Challenges faced by non-English speakers in accessing educational resources; significant costs involved.
    • Example: Chicago Public Schools and the variety of languages spoken by students.
Language Rights and Identity Politics
  • Mutual Intelligibility: Discussion around languages like Croatian, Bosnian, and Serbian, which are politically distinct but linguistically related.
  • Efficient Communication: The need for official languages and its economic implications versus the need for inclusivity and representation.
Course Structure and Assessment
  • Grade Breakdown:
    • Short papers (25%)
    • Final paper (35%)
    • Participation (20%)
    • Attendance (10%)
    • Short presentations on final paper topics.
  • Short Paper Specifications:
    • 2-3 pages, double-spaced; opportunity for rewrites for grades below B+.
Writing and AI Utilization
  • Using AI Tools:
    • Discussing the potential and limitations of using AI for academic writing (e.g., summarizing, generating outlines, checking clarity).
    • Strategies for effectively integrating AI while maintaining original thought.
  • Citing AI: Importance of transparency in using AI tools, including providing examples of inputs and outputs.
Academic Integrity and Final Thoughts
  • Commitment to Integrity: Importance of academic honesty and integrity in coursework.
  • Flexibility in Course: Adapting to ongoing changes and supporting student learning in a post-COVID context.