112 • PART 2 Answer Key
Review, Practice, and Explore – Chapter 12
12.1 British versus American English
Conduct some research to find at least five ways in which British English and American English
differ. Give examples from vocabulary, pronunciation, and syntax.
Answers will vary.
12.2 Explore a Dialect
Research an American dialect of your choice. Provide at least five examples of vocabulary, pronun-
ciation, and syntax unique to this dialect. Trace its history; is it a regional, social, or ethnic dialect,
or something else entirely? Who speaks this dialect and where? What factors led the variety to
develop its unique characteristics? Among the many dialects you may want to consider are General
Southern, Midland, Upper Midwest, West, Pacific Northwest, and Canadian.
Answers will vary.
12.3 Recent Borrowings
Look up the etymologies of at least six of the following words in a good etymological dictionary (The
Online Etymological Dictionary, The Oxford English Dictionary), and determine from what language
the word was borrowed, when it was borrowed, and whether the meaning has changed since the bor–
rowing. Where possible, determine what historical, social, and/or geographical factors led to the bor-
rowing of the word. Also note spelling or pronunciation differences from the original language.
slalom, caravan, jitters, gingham, ketchup, chess, shampoo, icon, klutz, bum, studio, spool,
wafe, mosquito, bigot
Answers:
slalom: 1921, from Norwegian. “downhill, zigzagging ski race.” Originally spelled
slalåm. (Borrowed through contact with Norwegian via competitive sports.)
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12.4 Etymologies of Place Names
Choose five place-names in your state and research their origins, including the language of origin
and the meaning.
Answers will vary.
12.5 The Ebonics Controversy
What was the 1996–1997 Ebonics controversy, and who was involved? What was the Oakland
school board’s intent, and what factors contributed to the media frenzy? Do you think this contro-
versy could have been avoided? How would knowledge of language variation have played a role?
Answers will vary.
12.6 Research an Ethnic Dialect
Ethnic dialects arise for a variety of reasons, chief among them social isolation and cultural identity.
Research an ethnic dialect of your choice. Where did the dialect originate and why? What are some
of its grammatical features? Why would you say this is an ethnic dialect rather than a regional one?
(Some ideas: Pacheco, Cajun, New York Jewish.)
Answers will vary.
Review, Practice, and Explore – Chapter 12 • 115
f. The bullet went clean through the door.
g. Y’all better get some sleep.
h. Youse better get some sleep.
i. I like those ones over there.