What Is the Universal Language?

Students are often told they speak incorrectly or use bad grammar. Telling students of color in rural or urban areas that they speak “incorrectly” or “ghetto” can have a negative effect internally.

I give students in my class the opportunity to analyze their “home” language (the first language they learn at home). I do not make students feel bad for the way they speak; however, I give them opportunities to translate terms or phrases into Standard American English.