FCS194H1

Urban Youth Languages of the World

Are there such phenomena as urban youth “languages”? How do they evolve and what commonalities or divergences are there? In this course, we will survey a range of urban youth languages that have emerged in African, North American and European contexts – with specific focus on their structural (linguistic) and social typicalities. Discussions and presentations will focus on the sociolinguistic concepts of language contact, bi/multilingualism, lexical innovation/renovation, language mixing, etc. in relation to youth language practices. We will be comparing major varieties of these language practices within and between the continents, and also be assessing their prospects and implications for language change. This course is taught in English. Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.