Evaluate the idea that language is in a state of decay.

The idea that language is in decay refers to the idea that language is under continuous damage which can't be repaired or restored. The decay means that language can't be maintained and is shifting into a time where it is becoming too reliant on abbreviations and incorrect grammar and structure. Jean Aitchison's 'Crumbling Castle' perfectly represents this idea of decay from both a prescriptivist and descriptivist point of view. Aitchison created this metaphor to mock prescriptivism and say that they take the rules of language too seriously and need to accept that change is inevitable. Alongside this, the 'Functional Theory' says that language will evolve to meet the demands of its users. Finally, John Humphrys 'I h8 txt msgs' article perfectly represents the idea that language has changed to be dominant in using abbreviations as a form of communication. Overall, language from many perspectives, language is in a state of decay which both prescriptivists and descriptivists have their own opinions on.

Firstly, Jean Aitchison proposed 3 metaphors ('Damp Spoon Syndrome', 'Crumbling Castle' and 'Infectious Disease') to counter the arguments of presrciptivist. Her descriptivist point of view made these effective because she believes that language has full rights and ability to change. The 'Crumbling Castle' identifies that language once had a peak of perfection which ever since has slowly started to crumble into something that can't be restored back to its former state. Lexis such as 'You' change to 'U' and 'Are' change to 'R'. This removes structure in communication and decays language as a result of not being able to maintain traditional standards of language. Prescriptivists pick at the use of 'U' and 'R' because they don't follow the traditional structure and rules of the English Language. This causes written language to become shorter and more informal which goes against the traditional culture and stature of English. Language has crumbled and continues to as a result of more lexis becoming shorter. Written communication is becoming more ineffective and spoken communication becomes more dry.

Additionally, the 'Functional Theory' represents the idea that language evolves based around the demand of its users. This links with 'Reflectionism' where language reflects the society who uses it. From a 'Functionalism' point of view, new lexis such as 'Smartphone', 'Internet' and 'Google' are used in everyday language to identify new things such as technology and internet. This means that language constantly adapts for new methods of identification and benefits those who use it now as well as users in the future. From a 'Reflectionist' point of view, language adapts temporarily for those who use it now and will constantly change which means that words such as 'Smartphone' will be said differently in 10 years. Additionally, both theories above show that language adapts but in different ways. the 'Functionalist' theory states that language adapts based on societies needs where 'Reflectionism' reflects societies way of living instead of what they need.

Finally, John Humphry's ' I h8 txt msgs' article presents the idea that text messages damage language and destroy written language. He said "They are destroying it: pillaging our punctuation, savaging our sentences, raping our vocabulary. And they must be stopped". From a prescriptivist viewpoint, this means that texters are damaging the language and interfering with words and adopting them to create a new culture of untraditional speech. He wants the rules of language to stay traditional and not change no matter the context of use. He also believes that the use of digital language is damaging the youths vocabulary as they are exposed to more abbreviated and untraditional rules which makes them adopt this into their everyday language.

Overall, language undergoes many changes and evolves around society presently and for the future. Language is seen as precious and something that shouldn't be tampered with but people have their own opinions. I believe that language should benefit the society who uses it and people can adapt it in their own way.

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AIStandard feedback

Mark

21/30

Mark breakdown

AO110/15
AO211/15

Paragraphs feedback

The introduction effectively sets the stage for the discussion, but it could benefit from a clearer thesis statement that outlines the main arguments. Consider explicitly stating your position on language decay and the perspectives you will explore.
The discussion of the Functional Theory is relevant, but the connection to language decay could be more explicit. Instead of just stating that language evolves, analyze how this evolution contributes to the idea of decay. Provide examples of how new lexis can be seen as a decay of traditional language.
This paragraph introduces Humphrys' viewpoint well, but it could be strengthened by including specific examples of how text messaging impacts vocabulary and grammar. Additionally, consider discussing the implications of his views on the future of language.
The conclusion summarizes the main points but could be more impactful. Instead of just stating your belief, consider reiterating the key arguments made in the essay and how they support your position on language decay.

What went well

The essay presents a range of perspectives on language decay, incorporating theories and viewpoints from notable figures like Aitchison and Humphrys. This demonstrates a good understanding of the topic and engages with different linguistic theories.

Even better if

To improve, the essay should provide deeper analysis and clearer connections between the theories discussed and the concept of language decay. More specific examples and a stronger thesis statement would enhance the overall argument.

Overall feedback

The essay demonstrates a solid understanding of the concept of language decay and presents various perspectives. However, it lacks depth in analysis and could benefit from clearer connections between ideas. Strengthening the thesis and providing more specific examples would improve the overall quality of the argument.

Essay and feedback