Abstract
Academic standards for ‘fluency’ have tended to center the capacity for language production and comprehension demonstrated by native speakers of a language. However, the rigid definitions proposed by researchers do not necessarily reflect the understanding of fluency held by second language speakers. My study investigates how heritage speakers in particular define fluency, emphasizing the role of life experiences in shaping their perspectives. Through comparison with data collected on second language speakers more broadly, I come to the conclusion that heritage speakers’ conceptions of fluency is informed by experiences with linguistic policing and exposure to the language.
Advisor
Derderian, Elizabeth
Department
Sociology and Anthropology
Recommended Citation
Hosler, Jack D., "Fluency as a Deficit Narrative: Language Attitudes of Heritage Speakers" (2025). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 11309.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/11309
Publication Date
2025
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2025 Jack D. Hosler