1.

The Four Layers of Language Policy:

1. Legislation and Political Processes: At the highest level, language policy is

shaped by legislation and political processes enacted by governments and
supranational agencies. This layer involves the creation, implementation, and
enforcement of laws, regulations, and policies that govern language use in
various domains such as education, government, and public services. These
policies often reflect societal values, cultural identity, and language ideologies.

2. States and Supranational Agencies: States and supranational agencies play a

significant role in shaping language policy through their governance structures
and decision-making processes. This layer involves the development of
overarching language policies at the national or regional level, as well as
participation in international agreements and organizations that influence
language-related matters. States may enact policies to promote linguistic
diversity, protect minority languages, or establish language standards.

3. Institutions: Institutions, including educational institutions, corporations, and

community organizations, implement language policies within their respective
domains. This layer involves the adoption of specific language practices,
curriculum frameworks, and guidelines to address linguistic diversity and meet
the needs of diverse stakeholders. Institutions may develop language programs,
provide language support services, and establish language proficiency
requirements for various purposes.

4. Classroom Practitioners: At the grassroots level, language policy is enacted by

classroom practitioners, including teachers, educators, and language
instructors. This layer involves the interpretation and application of language
policies in everyday educational settings. Classroom practitioners make
decisions regarding language instruction, assessment, and classroom
management based on policy directives, pedagogical principles, and learner
needs. They play a critical role in mediating language policy goals and
practices to promote effective language learning and communication skills.

2. The Four Common and Co-existing Forces of Language Policies at the National Level
(Spolsky, 2009)National (or ethnic) ideology or claims of identity
The role of English as a global language
A nation’s sociolinguistic situation
An increasing interest in linguistic rights within the human and civil rights framework

1. National (or Ethnic) Ideology or Claims of Identity: National or ethnic ideology

often shapes language policies at the national level. Governments may enact
policies that promote the dominant language as a symbol of national unity and
identity. Conversely, minority language groups may advocate for language
 rights and recognition to preserve their cultural heritage and autonomy.
Language policies may reflect historical narratives, political agendas, and
aspirations for nation-building or decentralization.

2. The Role of English as a Global Language: The prominence of English as a global

language influences language policies in many countries. Governments may
adopt policies to promote English proficiency as a means of enhancing
international competitiveness, facilitating economic development, and
accessing global markets. However, language policies regarding English may
also raise concerns about linguistic imperialism, language inequality, and
threats to linguistic diversity.

3. A Nation’s Sociolinguistic Situation: The sociolinguistic landscape of a nation,

including its linguistic diversity, language contact, and language attitudes,
significantly influences language policies. Governments may adopt policies to
address sociolinguistic challenges such as language shift, language
maintenance, and language planning. These policies may include measures to
promote multilingualism, support minority languages, and address language
inequalities based on socioeconomic or regional factors.

4. Increasing Interest in Linguistic Rights within the Human and Civil Rights
Framework: There is a growing recognition of linguistic rights within the
framework of human and civil rights. Language policies may be informed by
international conventions, treaties, and declarations that emphasize linguistic
diversity, language rights, and cultural rights. Governments may enact policies
to protect linguistic minorities, ensure linguistic access to public services and
education, and promote language equality as a fundamental human right. This
recognition of linguistic rights reflects broader efforts to uphold cultural diversity,
social justice, and inclusive governance.

3. The Four Phases of Language Planning (How Language Policies are Developed)

Selection
Codification
Elaboration
Acceptance

1. Selection: In the selection phase, language planners identify the languages to be

used in various domains such as education, government, media, and commerce.
This phase involves making decisions about which languages will receive official
status, be used as mediums of instruction, or receive support for preservation and
promotion. Factors influencing language selection may include linguistic
demographics, historical context, political considerations, and sociocultural
dynamics.
2. Codification: Once languages are selected, the codification phase involves
establishing standardized forms of the chosen languages. This phase includes
developing orthographies, grammar rules, vocabulary, and terminologies to
standardize language usage and facilitate communication. Codification aims to
create linguistic norms and conventions that can be used consistently across
different contexts and by various language users.

3. Elaboration: In the elaboration phase, language planners work to expand and

develop the chosen languages to meet the needs of modern society. This phase
involves creating language resources such as dictionaries, textbooks, language
teaching materials, and technical terminology. Elaboration also encompasses
language planning initiatives to adapt languages for new domains, technologies,
and specialized fields, ensuring their relevance and usability in diverse contexts.

4. Acceptance: The final phase of language planning is acceptance, where the

planned language policies and initiatives are implemented and integrated into
society. This phase involves garnering support and acceptance from stakeholders
such as government officials, educators, language communities, and the general
public. Language planners may engage in advocacy, education, and
community outreach efforts to promote acceptance of the planned language
policies and encourage widespread use and proficiency in the chosen
languages. Ultimately, acceptance ensures that language planning efforts
effectively contribute to linguistic diversity, communication, and social cohesion.