Culture, Body, and Language: Conceptualizations of Internal Body Organs across Cultures and Languages
One of the central themes in cognitive linguistics is the uniquely human development of some higher potential called the "mind" and, more particularly, the intertwining of body and mind, which has come to be known as embodiment. Several books and volumes have explored this theme in length. However, the interaction between culture, body and language has not received the due attention that it deserves.
What are the unique characteristics of sign languages that make them so fascinating? What have recent researchers discovered about them, and what do these findings tell us about human language more generally?
Language can be studied from several angles. The focus on the relation between language, thought and culture is known as anthropological linguistics (AL). This text constitutes a basic introduction to the subject matter and techniques of AL. Traditionally, anthropological linguists have aimed to document and study the languages of indigenous cultures, especially North American ones.
Primary Languages: Effective Learning and Teaching
Primary languages are to be an entitlement for all pupils in KS2 from 2010. There is therefore a need to ensure that trainee primary teachers are equipped with the required skills, knowledge and understanding to contribute to this process. This book supports specialists, and also non-specialist trainees with an interest in MFL, who may need to deliver languages across the curriculum, providing them with a clear understanding of the methodology and helping them to develop linguistic competence and confidence.
Written in a friendly style, the authors offer guidance on embedding languages across the curriculum, planning, teaching and assessment. Theory is related directly to classroom practice using a whole range of features, including:
Sample lesson plans and observation reports
Questions for reflection and practical activities
'Teachers talking' - snap shots of effective school practice
'Pupils' perspectives' and sample pupil work
This book is essential reading for trainee teachers on specialist primary languages training programmes as well as general primary PGCE programmes.
