Background of the study
Nigerian English, shaped by historical, cultural, and educational influences, exhibits unique syntactic features. Among academic speakers in Abuja, the language reflects both standard English norms and indigenous influences. This study investigates the syntactic structures employed by academics in formal discourse, focusing on clause embedding, coordination, and the use of complex noun phrases. Academic discourse in Abuja often involves intricate sentence constructions designed to convey precision and scholarly depth. However, code-switching and borrowing from local languages introduce variations that deviate from international norms. Through corpus analysis of academic publications, lectures, and conference presentations, this study aims to identify prevalent syntactic patterns and deviations. It will also examine how bilingual competence and exposure to global academic practices influence syntactic choices, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of Nigerian English in scholarly contexts.
Statement of the problem
Despite extensive research on Nigerian English, there is limited systematic investigation into the syntactic structures of academic discourse in Abuja. Preliminary evidence suggests that while academic speakers adhere to formal syntactic norms, subtle deviations occur due to bilingual influences and local linguistic traditions. This gap hinders the development of effective language policies and teaching materials that reflect actual academic usage. Understanding these variations is essential for standardizing academic communication and for enhancing language instruction in higher education.
Objectives of the study:
To document syntactic structures in academic Nigerian English.
To analyze deviations influenced by bilingualism.
To propose recommendations for language standardization in academia.
Research questions:
What are the predominant syntactic patterns in academic discourse?
How does bilingualism affect syntactic choices?
What implications do these patterns have for language policy?
Research Hypotheses:
Academic speakers predominantly use complex syntactic structures.
Bilingual influences cause systematic syntactic deviations.
Improved language training can reduce these deviations.
Significance of the study (100 words):
This study is significant because it provides insights into the syntactic structures of Nigerian English among academic speakers, informing language policy and pedagogical practices. Its findings will help standardize academic discourse while acknowledging local linguistic influences, thereby enhancing communication in educational settings.
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is confined to academic Nigerian English in Abuja and does not address informal language use or non-academic registers.
Definitions of terms:
Syntactic Structures: The organization of words into phrases and sentences.
Nigerian English: A localized variety of English spoken in Nigeria.
Academic Discourse: Formal language used in scholarly communication.
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