Social Class in Applied Linguistics

Social Class in Applied Linguistics examines the role of social class analysis in applied linguistics research and practice. The book provides a framework for understanding class-based inequality in language education and communication. Block traces the historical development of social class theory from Marx and Weber through to contemporary sociological perspectives. He presents case studies and research examples demonstrating how class impacts language learning, teaching, and use across educational contexts. The text reviews current debates about social class in linguistics and critiques the field's relative neglect of class compared to other social factors. Block outlines methodological approaches for incorporating class analysis into applied linguistics research and pedagogy. Through its systematic treatment of class in language studies, this work points to the need for greater attention to socioeconomic inequality in understanding linguistic practices and outcomes. The analysis connects linguistic research to broader questions of power, privilege and social reproduction in education.

Most readers describe this book as a useful introduction to social class research in applied linguistics, noting that it fills a gap in the literature. Academic reviewers highlight Block's attention to intersectionality and his examination of how class interacts with other social factors. Positives: - Clear overview of key theories and concepts - Strong analysis of Bourdieu's influence - Practical research applications - Comprehensive references and examples Criticisms: - Some readers found the writing style dense and theoretical - Limited coverage of Global South perspectives - Focus primarily on Western contexts - Could include more practical teaching applications Available Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (5 ratings) No ratings found on Amazon The book is mainly reviewed in academic journals rather than consumer platforms. A review in the Journal of Sociolinguistics praised Block's "systematic treatment of social class" but suggested it could better address "class in the contemporary global economy."

Language and Social Class by Peter Trudgill A linguistic analysis of how social stratification shapes language use across different communities.

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Language, Society and Power by Linda Thomas and Shân Wareing A study of language's role in creating and maintaining social hierarchies and power relations.

The Sociolinguistics of Identity by Tope Omoniyi and Goodith White An investigation of how social class and other identity factors intersect with language learning and use.

Language and Social Inequality by Richard J. Watts A research-based exploration of how linguistic practices contribute to social inequality in educational and professional contexts.

🎓 David Block has been a professor at multiple prestigious institutions including the University of London's Institute of Education and the University of Lleida in Spain. 📚 The book challenges the field of applied linguistics by arguing that social class has been largely ignored in favor of other identity markers like gender, ethnicity, and nationality. 🌍 The work draws heavily on Pierre Bourdieu's sociological theories, particularly his concepts of cultural capital and habitus, to examine language learning and social stratification. 📊 Published in 2014, the book came at a time when income inequality and social mobility were becoming increasingly prominent topics in academic discourse. 🔍 Block incorporates case studies from multiple countries and contexts, including immigrant language learners, study abroad students, and workplace communication, to demonstrate how social class shapes language learning opportunities and outcomes.