National Languages and Language Planning (Sociolinguistics view)

National Language & Official Language

—  National language:

                it is the main language of political, social and cultural practices, where people use it as a symbol of their national unity.

               

                ex : Swahili in Tanzania, Hebrew in Israel

—  Official language is the language used by governments for formal functions.

                ex : Pilipino and English in Philippines

—  A language can serve both role as national official language

                ex : Indonesian in Indonesia

Planning for a National Official Language

—  Definition of LP

                Deliberate language change; that is, changes in the systems of language code or speaking or both that are planned by organizations that are established for such purposes or given a mandate to fulfill such purpose.

  (Bjorn H. Jernudd and Jyotirinda Das Gupta, 1971)

—  The LP focuses on the decision making that goes into determining what language use is appropriate in particular speech community

                (Carol, M. Eastman, 1983)

Steps in Language Planning

1. Selection: selecting the variety or code to be developed.
2. Codification: standardizing its structural or linguistic features. Codification process involves :

•       Developing a Standard of Spelling System, writing system, etc.

•       Deciding on rules/norms of grammar.

•       Indentifying the vocabulary.

•       Elaboration: extending its functions for use in new domains.

•       Securing its acceptance: acceptance by people in terms of attitude & prestige.

Factors Influencing Language Plan

—  Social Factor

—  Demographic Factor

—  Linguistic Factor

—  Political Factor

The Characteristics of A Successful National Language

1. Unifying
2. Separatist
3. Prestige
4. Fame-of-reference function