Negotiating an Identity to Achieve in English: Investigating the Linguistic Identities of Young Language Learners

• In Event: Poster Session 4
  In Poster Session: Division G Section 3 Poster Session: Social Contexts of Multiple Languages and Literacies

Abstract

English language learners are faced with the task of developing a level of English proficiency to be able to engage in academic coursework. Language learning involves developing a language, as well as constructing an identity with that language. In this paper, I investigate how 19 students learning English as a second language construct their linguistic identities. Over 18 months, three interviews were conducted with each student. Qualitative analysis of interviews showed students construct identities that can either support or challenge their linguistic development. These findings build on previous work on identity construction and achievement which identified the multiple and changing racial and ethnic identities students take up from their academic environment and how this process either supports or restricts achievement.

Author

• Jennifer Marie Collett, Lehman College - CUNY