Intro to African American Lang

2 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

No variety of English has received more academic and public attention than African American Language (AAL). From criticism to celebration, this course examines AAL through both its linguistic features and its social significance. Students will explore the language’s vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, and syntax; its role in artistic expression through rhetoric, storytelling, signifyin’, rappin’, Black preaching traditions, and music; and its historical development, including connections to African languages, creole theories, early forms of AAL, and regional and social variation within the language. The course also examines education, Ebonics, and other applied issues, including language attitudes, linguistic profiling, teacher expectations, literacy development, and the role of AAL in the courtroom and politics. Through weekly activities and assignments, students will connect linguistic theory to real-world applications while developing a deeper understanding of the cultural, social, and historical significance of African American Language.