I Meant to Say That: How Adult Language Learners Construct Positive Identities Through Nonstandard Language Use

Authors

  • Michelle Szabo

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18806/tesl.v24i1.26

Keywords:

Language education

Abstract

The aim of this article is to raise awareness in L2 education about the relationship between second-language learners' linguistic choices in the L2 and their identities. The author reviews empirical research and language-learning narratives that show that L2 learners may purposely use nonstandard L2 forms. Using a poststructuralist framework to conceptualize identity, the author argues that these second-language learners use nonstandard language in the L2 in order to create positive identities, and in some cases to resist social inequalities, in the L2 community. The implications of this research for second-language teachers are discussed and suggestions for classroom practice are offered.

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Published

2006-10-01

How to Cite

Szabo, M. (2006). I Meant to Say That: How Adult Language Learners Construct Positive Identities Through Nonstandard Language Use. TESL Canada Journal, 24(1), 21–39. https://doi.org/10.18806/tesl.v24i1.26

Issue

Section

Articles