Jamila Lyiscott: 3 Ways To Speak English

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Tie up discussion and video 200 words min no plagiarism Discussion after video: Discuss: Consider the language you are most comfortable with. After viewing the video, how many versions of your language do you speak? Psychologically speaking, how does the ability help or hinder your daily communication with others?

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The video "3 Ways To Speak English" by Jamila Lyiscott explores the concept of linguistic versatility and the multiple identities embedded within language use. Lyiscott emphasizes that language is not monolithic and that individuals often navigate different dialects, registers, or languages depending on context, audience, and purpose. Reflecting on this, I find that I primarily communicate in my native language, which is English, but I also employ several "versions" of this language in different settings. For example, I switch between formal academic language when writing essays or participating in professional environments, and more colloquial or slang-laden speech in casual conversations with friends and family. This multiplicity of language use is common among bilingual or multilingual individuals, but even monolingual speakers often adapt their language depending on social stimuli.

Psychologically, the ability to switch between different language versions enhances my social interactions by enabling me to connect more effectively with diverse groups. It grants a sense of cultural identity and belonging, fostering trust and understanding. However, it can also create internal conflicts or feelings of inauthenticity if I feel I must suppress certain parts of my linguistic identity to conform to societal expectations. For instance, speaking more formally in professional settings may sometimes make me feel distant from my authentic self or from peers who communicate more informally. Overall, linguistic adaptability is a powerful tool that broadens communication capacity and cultural understanding but may also pose challenges related to identity and self-perception.

The ability to navigate multiple language styles psychologically benefits daily communication by facilitating better social integration and cultural expression. It allows for greater flexibility and empathy in interactions, recognizing that different contexts call for different linguistic approaches. Nonetheless, it can hinder genuine self-expression if pressure to conform restricts authentic communication. Recognizing the value of linguistic diversity can help foster more inclusive and understanding communities, where individuals feel free to express multiple facets of their identities without fear of judgment.

References

  • Lyiscott, J. (2017). 3 Ways To Speak English. TED Talk. https://www.ted.com/talks/jamila_lyiscott_3_ways_to_speak_english
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  • Flores, N., & Rosa, J. (2015). Undoing appropriateness: Rethinking how language practices shape educational opportunities. Harvard Educational Review, 85(2), 149-171.
  • García, O. (2009). Bilingual education in the 21st century: A global perspective. Wiley-Blackwell.
  • Hall, G., & Cook, G. (2012). Next-generation approaches to language assessment. Language Teaching, 45(1), 83-105.
  • Heller, M. (2007). Bilingualism as identity. Journal of Language, Identity & Education, 6(2), 69-74.
  • Lippi-Green, R. (2012). English with an accent: Language, ideology, and discrimination in the United States. Routledge.
  • Otheguy, R., & Zentella, A. (2012). The collaborative construction of language ideologies in bilingual communities. International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism, 15(6), 695-713.
  • Valdés, G. (2001). Learning and not learning English: Latino students in American schools. Teachers College Press.
  • Wolfram, W. (2007). Dialects and their social significance. American Speech, 82(3), 237-253.

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