The impact of language contact on syntactic development among Yoruba and English bilinguals
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Background of the study
Language contact occurs when speakers of different languages interact, often resulting in syntactic convergence or divergence. In Nigeria, many speakers are bilingual in Yoruba and English, leading to unique syntactic developments. This study explores how contact between Yoruba and English influences syntactic structures, such as word order, clause embedding, and conjunction usage. Bilingual speakers frequently alternate between syntactic norms of the two languages, resulting in hybrid constructions that may not conform to either standard. Observations indicate that code-switching and borrowing impact sentence construction, potentially enhancing expressiveness but also creating challenges for language standardization. By analyzing spontaneous speech and formal texts produced by bilinguals, this research aims to identify patterns of syntactic development driven by language contact. The findings are expected to contribute to broader theories of bilingualism and syntactic adaptation, with implications for language teaching and policy.
Statement of the problem
Despite extensive bilingual contact, systematic research on its impact on syntactic development among Yoruba and English bilinguals is limited. Preliminary data suggest that bilingual speakers exhibit hybrid syntactic structures that challenge standard models; however, these phenomena have not been fully documented. This gap complicates the development of effective instructional materials and language policies that address the complexities of bilingual syntax. Understanding these influences is essential for balancing language preservation with communicative efficiency in a multilingual society.
Objectives of the study:
To document syntactic patterns among Yoruba-English bilinguals.
To analyze the influence of language contact on syntax.
To propose recommendations for bilingual language instruction.
Research questions:
How does language contact affect syntactic structures in bilingual speakers?
What hybrid syntactic patterns emerge?
How can instructional strategies accommodate these patterns?
Research Hypotheses:
Language contact leads to the emergence of hybrid syntactic structures.
Bilingual speakers use nonstandard constructions influenced by both languages.
Targeted instruction can mitigate negative effects of syntactic interference.
Significance of the study (100 words):
This study is significant as it sheds light on how language contact shapes syntactic development among Yoruba and English bilinguals. The findings will inform educators and policymakers to design effective bilingual curricula that respect linguistic diversity while promoting clear communication .
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study focuses on bilingual Yoruba-English speakers and their syntactic patterns, excluding other language pairs or sociolinguistic factors.
Definitions of terms:
Language Contact: Interaction between speakers of different languages.
Syntactic Development: Evolution of sentence structure.
Bilingualism: The ability to use two languages fluently.
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