Understanding English Language Variation in U.S. Schools

In today’s classrooms, students possess and use many culturally, ethnically, and regionally diverse English language varieties that may differ from standardized English. This book helps classroom teachers become attuned to these differences and offers practical strategies to support student achievement while fostering positive language attitudes in classrooms and beyond. The text contrasts standardized varieties of English with Southern, Appalachian, and African American English varieties, focusing on issues that are of everyday concern to those who are assessing the linguistic competence of students. Featuring a narrative style with teaching strategies and discussion questions, this practical resource:

• Provides a clear, introductory explanation of what is meant by non-standard English, from both linguistic and educational viewpoints.
• Emphasizes what educators needs to know about language variation in and outside of the classroom.
• Addresses the social factors accompanying English language variation and how those factors interact in real classrooms.

Anne H. Charity Hudley is assistant professor of English, linguistics, and Africana studies at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. Christine Mallinson is assistant professor in the Language, Literacy, and Culture Program and affiliate assistant professor in the Gender and Women’s Studies Program at the University of Maryland–Baltimore County (UMBC). Visit the authors’ professional development website at http://charityhudleymallinson.com/professionaldevelopment.

“Charity Hudley and Mallinson argue convincingly that the success of students in increasingly diverse U.S. schools depends on teachers' being linguistically informed…This book's descriptions, explanations, and teaching suggestions are invaluable to teachers.”

—Journal of Educational Research

“…an impressive illustration of productive synergy between theory and practice. The authors have explored complex intersections of language, culture and schooling in a way that addresses with clarity those language-based concerns that have often served as barriers to affirming students’ self-worth and ability to learn.”

—Language and Education

“Full of advice and support . . . this book is pure joy for teachers and college counselors.”
—Shirley Brice Heath, professor emerita, Stanford University

“A landmark book.”
—Walt Wolfram, North Carolina State University

"An important contribution to the literature."
—Gloria Ladson-Billings, University of Wisconsin–Madison

"Language variation in English is one of the more misunderstood areas in education. The authors do an exceptional job of demystifying the topic by providing useful background material and practical insights. This volume is destined to become a foundational classic for teacher preparation and the ongoing professional development of educators."
—Terrence G. Wiley, president of the Center for Applied Linguistics and professor emeritus, Arizona State University

“An invaluable guide for teachers, graduate students, and all lovers of language. The authors provide a comprehensive and fascinating account of Southern and African American English, showing how it differs from standardized English, how those differences affect children in the classroom, and how teachers can use these insights to better serve their students.”
—Deborah Tannen, University Professor and professor of linguistics, Georgetown University