1. Textual variations and representations Language diversity
Course Overview:
A level:
Textual variations and representations
Language diversity
Language change
Child language acquisition
Original writing (coursework – 10%)
Language investigation (coursework – 10%)
80% exam, 20% coursework
2 exam papers
2.5 hours per paper

2. Linguistic frameworks:
When you analyse a text at A level, you apply a range of linguistic frameworks to the text. These are:
Lexis
Grammar
Discourse
Pragmatics
Graphology
Phonology
What do you think each of these frameworks might refer to?

3. Graphology is concerned with the visual elements of a text
It is to do with the shape, image, colour, space and typography
Key Terms:
Shape – the actual shape of the text, often related to genre
Images – the use of images in a text, either as photographs, illustrations, signs etc.
Typography – font styles and sizes
Space/layout – the positioning and size of elements of a text

5. Look at the five texts you have been given.
Graphology:
Look at the five texts you have been given.
In groups, discuss how the graphological features of the text contribute to representation.
Challenge: Can you apply any of the other linguistic frameworks?

6. Language and people:
Language and occupation
Language and gender
Language and social groups
Language and region

7. Discuss the following statements in groups.
The job you work in affects the way you use language.
Women talk more than men.
Some accents sound horrible.
Men tend to dominate conversations in mixed sex groups.
People change the way they talk depending on who they’re talking to.
People change their accents to sound cleverer.