InstructorShakeema Funchess Tiktok@Adventuresinzenbooks Office locationThe DMs Office hoursAs scheduled |
Course overviewThis course provides an in-depth exploration of African American Vernacular English (AAVE), focusing on its linguistic features, historical development, cultural significance, and its role in education and society. Students will engage with scholarly readings, participate in discussions, and conduct research to gain a comprehensive understanding of AAVE
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
* Describe the historical and sociolinguistic origins of AAVE. * Identify and analyze key linguistic features of AAVE, such as phonological rules, grammatical structures, and lexical items. * Understand the social and political implications of language variation and the stigmatization of AAVE. * Critically evaluate research on AAVE and its impact on education, law, and other domains of social life. * Develop critical thinking and research skills related to language and society.
COURSE STRUCTUREWeeks 1-10: Weekly topics with recommended readings. Discussion Boards: Week 2, 4, 6 and 8. Final Paper: Research and writing phases in Weeks 3, 5, 7; final submission due Week 9.
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Course schedule
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Week |
Subject |
Topics |
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1 |
Intro to AAVE |
Definition, Scope, Misconceptions |
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2 |
Phonological Features of AAVE |
Sound Patterns, Pronunciation, Rules |
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3 |
Grammatical Structures in AAVE |
Syntax, Morphology, Mood Markers |
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4 |
Historical Development of AAVE |
Origins, Evolution, Dialectal Variation |
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5 |
AAVE in Literature and Media |
Literature, Music, Film |
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Week |
Subject |
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6 |
Sociolinguistic Perspectives on AAVE Linguistic Attitudes, Code-Switching |
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7 |
AAVE In Education Educational polices, Strategic Impact |
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8 |
AAVE and the Law Language and Legal Discourse |
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9 |
Contemporary Issues and Debates “Ebonics Controversy”, preservation |
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10 |
Future Directions AAVE in the globalized world |
Homework policy
Discussion Board Participation (20%): Active and thoughtful engagement in weekly discussions.
Final Research Paper (80%): A well-researched and well-written paper on a chosen topic related to AAVE.
Additional information
Discussion Reflect on key takeaways and insights from the course.
Final Paper: Utilize research and class discussion to write a 5–7-page research paper on a chosen topic related to AAVE.