Twangy Twain

Once I knew it was Mark Twain's work, I assumed that the pronunciation would be difficult no matter the piece. Knowing this, I began reading aloud (much like Jourdan) in order to quickly and effortlessly finishing the story. To be honest, the tone of Aunt Rachels voice sounded more like a Jamaican Rastafarian in my head and aloud which made reading it all the more entertaining. When it comes to educating students on this model of the improper use of language, the intended voice and character of the author should be taken into account.

When I become an educator, I feel it is my job to educate my students on the proper use of language and southern slang is very improper. There will be no judgement if a student falls short and relies on slang and accented voice however, I will assume that no former education has been received if a student comes into class sounding like Aunt Rachel after a hard day of labor on the cotton farm. As and English major I understand that Twain was simply conveying the level at which these uneducated slaves of the 19th century spoke and context plays a role in the mode of language these characters employ. Good read though.

First Assignment

The English language is as difficult to learn and understand as it is versatile and truly magnificent. Most instructors fall short when it comes to instructing how the English language should be used and how to appropriately apply that language. It is my understanding that language is meant to break the barrier between people so that they might collaborate and empathize with each other simultaneously. However, language can also be used as a deadly-verbal weapon. Knowing this, there is both an appropriate way to instruct others how to use language, along with the inappropriate way. As an instructor I would inform my students of each use of the language, as each has their use in our world. Furthermore, it would be my duty as an instructor to allow my students any materials necessary in order to better understand our language.
Recognizing the difference between good use of the English language and an improper use is imperative to furthering education. Without a comprehensive knowledge of the English language, students will not be able to read and write as effectively as possible. That said, students wouldn't be capable of relaying their personal opinion and emotion through language, without which we would be autonomic emotionless robots.
So overall, as a future educator, the first thing I would teach my students is how powerful language can be if it's used properly. How language can be used to convey feelings, opinions, disagreements, understanding, and ultimately love.