CODE SWITCHING
Implementing Code-Switching in the Classroom by Lesley-Anne Kasperczyk
- Definition
Code-switching is the alternation between two codes (languages and/or dialects), between people who share those particular codes. Choices about how code-switching manifests itself are determined by a number of social and linguistic factors. It is quite typical in multicultural and immigrant populations. Code-switching can take on several forms including alteration of sentences, phrases from both languages, and switching in a long narrative. In normal conversations between two bilinguals, code-switching consists of eighty-four percent single word switches, ten percent phrase switches, and six percent clause switching (Skiba, 1997, para. 2).
2. Function
In some situations, code-switching is done deliberately to exclude a person from a conversation. It is seen as a sign of solidarity within a group, and it is also assumed that all speakers in a conversation must be bilingual in order for code-switching to occur. Bilinguals do not usually translate from the weaker language to the stronger one, and is used most often when a word doesn’t “come”. Code-switching is not a language interference based on the fact that it supplements speech. It provides continuity in speech rather than presenting an interference when used because of an inability of expression. Code-switching can be used in a variety of degrees, whether it be used at home with family and friends, or used with superiors at the workplace (Lipski, 1985, p. 23).
3. Types
The first type of language switching is known as mechanical switching. It occurs unconsciously, and fills in unknown or unavailable terms in one language. This type of code-switching is also known as code-mixing. Codemixing occurs when a speaker is momentarily unable to remember a term, but is able to recall it in a different language. Another type of code switching, known as code-changing, is characterized by fluent intrasentential shifts, transferring focus from one language to another. It is motivated by situational and stylistic factors, and the conscious nature of the switch between two languages is emphasized (Lipski, 1985, p. 12).
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