Linguicism and Deficit Language
Linguicism is defined as the unfair treatment of an individual based solely on his or her language. Anyone who speaks any English Language variation could at anytime become a victim of linguicism. The following video provides a clear example of linguicism:
Oftentimes, coupled with linguicism is the use of deficit language towards speakers of English Language Variations. Deficit language refers to disempowering language that often reflects the impossibilities instead of the possibilities of a group of people (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2010;Souto-Manning, 2013). The list below provides examples of deficit language towards speakers of English Language Variations and English Language Learners. Language from a strength perspective is also provided to overturn deficit language used towards these groups. You can add language from a strength perspective to your linguistic repertoire to show appreciation for linguistic differences and advocate for speakers of English Language Variations and English Language Learners. Again, students have a right to their own language (Kinloch, 2006).
Deficit Perspectives Strength Perspectives
"They speak broken English and slang!"
They speak beautifully AAL!
"These children cannot speak proper English!"
These students have limited English proficiency." My students are bilingual and emerging English
learners.
Deficit Perspectives Strength Perspectives
"They speak broken English and slang!"
They speak beautifully AAL!
"These children cannot speak proper English!"
These students have limited English proficiency." My students are bilingual and emerging English
learners.