SOCIOLINGUISTIC PERSPECTIVES ON DISCOURSE AND SECOND LANGUAGE RESEARCH

This chapter highlights the role of sociolinguistics in discourse analytical second language acquisition (SLA) research. To centre this complex area of inquiry, the chapter discusses how the lens of sociolinguistics often brings to the fore a focus on context when researching SLA through discourse. In particular, popular contexts in the literature are drawn upon, particularly language classrooms, multilingual workplaces, and multilingual homes. The spread of contexts gives an opportunity to discuss the different trends in discursive approaches taken and particular methods used (e.g., interviews, an ethnographic approach, etc.). Within each context in this chapter, case studies are drawn upon from diverse regions as examples. Expanded examples are also provided, with empirical data for the multilingual homes context and language classroom context. The chapter then brings everything together in a discussion of how sociolinguistics, SLA, and discourse work dynamically in a multilingual space with layered areas of inquiry to highlight key concepts at this interface such as investment, identity, and positioning. The chapter ends with recommendations for future research as well as recommendations for additional key readings.