Varieties and Diversity- an overview

Varieties and Diversity refer to differences in the use of language based on aspects such as geographical region, social context, historical period, mode of communication, occupation, and identity groups.
Regional & international diversity: Dialects often form the basis for regional diversities, while languages differ between nations.
Social diversity: Distinctions in how language is used often manifest based on factors like age, gender, ethnicity, and social class.
Historical diversity: Over time, language evolves and changes. Looking at text from different periods can reveal these shifts.
Occupational diversity: Different professional fields develop unique jargon. This specialised language varies from profession to profession.
Mode of communication: How language is used can vary greatly across modes like spoken, written, or online communication. Each has its own conventions.
Understand the concept of ‘idiolect’; this refers to an individual’s distinct and unique use of language. It reflects personal idiosyncrasies and the various influences on someone’s speech and writing.
Be aware of how different language varieties can reflect power dynamics. How language is used can reinforce, challenge or negotiate power relationships.
Remember that language can be a tool for inclusion and exclusion. Certain language features or forms may be valued over others, leading to prejudice or discrimination.
Understand that language diversity is not static but continually evolving due to factors like globalisation, technology, and population shifts.
Other important concepts you should be familiar with include accent, sociolect, multi-modal communication, maker-receiver relationship, language change theories, language varieties and prestige, overt and covert norms, and language and identity.