SPN 6

 What is an official language? ◦ A language that is given a special legal status within a country, state, or other juristiction. ◦ Typically is the language used within government (courts, administration, etc.) and to conduct business. ◦ Does not solely refer to the language used by the people of a nation.  Some countries have more than one official language

 What is a native language? ◦ The language acquired by a person within early childhood. ◦ Also called: “primary” language, or “mother tongue” ◦ Ex.) For most of us, English is our native language.

 What is a non-native language? ◦ A language that a speaker has not been speaking since early childhood. ◦ Typically a language that is learned (and eventually mastered) in addition to one’s native language. ◦ Ex.) Mrs. Mignano is a non-native speaker of Italian and Spanish.

 What is a heritage language? ◦ A language that someone chooses to learn because it is part of their family history ◦ Might not have been speaking this language since early childhood ◦ Ex.) Mrs. Mignano is a heritage speaker of Italian, since it was the language of her ancestors but not the language she grew up speaking.