M3: What is Language?

Before we dive into some specific features of language(s), let's think about what language is and how it is used by humans.

Write it Down

 

The videos below  get us thinking about this idea of what language is...but before you watch them, try to come up with your own definition of language. 

Write it down.

I think human language is  ________________________________.

Now, watch this first video up until minute 5:20. Jot down notes about what surprises you and how you would like to change your definition of language.  What did the video bring up that you had not thought about?  What did the video address that you did already think about? (You can watch past minute 5:20, but he starts to talk about selling his book, so that is really not necessary for you to watch).

After watching that first video, I want to change my definition of language to include _______________________________________.

I also have these questions about language...

  1. .
  2. .
  3. .

 

Now watch this second video about language in general that was created by linguists who teach ASL. What else can you add to your definition of language after watching this second video?  What questions do you still have about language?

[PSST...You will need to refer back to the notes you have taken here when you complete your journal for Module 3.]