LANGUAGE GAP BETWEEN THE LOWER AND MIDDLE CLASS LEARNERS

Abstract

In researching this topic, I find that there is a gap in language acquisition depending on social

status. How does social status affect language acquisition? How do they differ? How can we

improve this? I conducted an interview, participants from both sides. Lower class learners

struggle on learning the English language. Their vocabulary grows at a slower pace and these

differences persist throughout the school years. Middle class learners have more opportunities

and resources compared to lower class learners. The learning environment could also affect the

learner. For the low class learners, their exposure to the English language is limited. There

should be equality for learning the English language. When middle-class individuals interact

with those from the lower class, they tend to use a language that consists of complex sentences

and technical jargon. Such communication style may not be understandable for those from the

lower class, leading to a communication gap that creates a barrier between the two classes. The

implications of this problem is that having funding resources like books, CD’s, gadgets etc.

could help learners. Interacting with others in English is extremely beneficial. Also, come up

with creative ideas for designing policies and programs aimed at enhancing learners’ language

outcomes.