Accents + Dialects Basics

Question 1

Define RP

Answer 1

RP stands for ‘Received Pronunciation’ - using the standard form when you speak

Question 2

Define SE

Answer 2

SE stands for ‘Standard English’ - this is the written and spoken form of language

Question 3

Define vernacular form

Answer 3

This is the form of language where accents and dialects can be heard

Question 4

Define convergence

Answer 4

Convergence is when you modify the way you speak to match the patterns of those around you

Question 5

Define divergence

Answer 5

Divergence is where you modify your speech to be different from those around you

Question 6

State 3 differences between an accent and a dialect.

Answer 6

• Accents are how the words are pronounced by the speaker
• An accent features the dialect of the sentence used by the speaker or writer
• An accent exists as both regional and social accents

Question 7

List 3 features of a dialect

Answer 7

• Pronoun usage
• Verb forms
• Double negatives