You may recall the neoclassical writers Jonathan Swift and Samuel Johnson were concerned about preserving the English language,
which they believed was in a state of constant deterioration. Earlier in this unit, you completed an activity in which you analyze language rules and related questions of usage. In this task, you will choose a common topic related to language usage and grammar, examine it in detail, and write a short essay to present your findings. Choose one of the topics listed below are a topic of your choice that is related to language issues and usage:
Double negatives
Ain’t
Incorrect or non-standard verb forms
Frequently confused words
Use of around and onto replace more specific prepositions such as about
Write an essay on the language issue you’ve chosen which you explain the background of the issue and take a stance on regarding the usage rules related to the issue. Be sure your essay addresses the following points:
Explain the rules or language issue you chose
Discuss if there are times when the language rule can be broken or changed
Explain the views of language experts on this topic
Explain the views of language experts on this topic
Include the data on you said you gather from your interactions with friends by listening to people on the radio or on TV
Include the data on you said you gather from your interactions with friends by listening to people on the radio or on TV
Take a clear stance about the usage rules related to the issue you chose.
