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Welcome to Episode 2, Stories of Language and Culture.
In this episode, we'll consider the connection between language and audience. Specifically,
we'll explore how we use language differently in different cultural contexts.
Each community has its own way of speaking -- a way of communicating that helps to identify
members as part of that community. A large scale example of this phenomenon is the variety
of languages and dialects spoken all over the world. People who grew up in China might
speak Mandarin. People who grew up in the UK probably know English. People who grew
up in the United States or in Australia, probably communicate in English too -- though their
dialects are so different they might not fully understand each other!
Of course, this idea of community language works on a smaller scale as well. You may
have terms of endearment for a significant other, slang words you speak when with your
friends, and even job-specific jargon you only use at work.
In this episode you'll practice the rhetorical move of narration while also reflecting on
the way that you use language. Think about the communities you're a part of and how you
expertly change your own communication each time you speak to a specific community's members
as your audience.
Have fun! And remember, you can share ideas and ask questions on Twitter or Facebook!