Waneshka Mendez  

05/12/2024 

English110 

Prof. Lobell 

Self-Assessment Essay 

I do not really know what to talk about, but this is a common occurrence when it comes to writing assignments. I often find myself staring at a blank page with just a simple heading and my name on it. Waiting for something to come to my head, I do not know what I am waiting for, whether it is a stroke of genius or inspiration. I feel as if I am a painter who is staring at a blank canvas not knowing where to put the first stroke or what color to start with. I just sit there with these thoughts that swirl around in my head, not knowing what direction it is that I want to take when it comes to my work. Should I just start typing away and hope that it makes sense, and I am able to get a good grade on it? Or do I want to take my time to deliver a piece that I can take a sense of pride in and have some appreciation for? Even right now as I struggle to complete this assignment, I do not know what I want to do. Whether or not I want to just ramble on and hope that eventually I stumble along a path that hopefully takes me down the right road. I often find myself just rambling about nothing in these documents hoping that it makes sense and has some type of cohesion. 

I have not always been the writer that I am today, at an early age I would just take the effortless way out of everything. I would just string together sentences that corresponded to the prompt I was given and take whatever grade I was given. I always had some type of justification for it as well, a grade is better than nothing. At least I put something down and I cannot get an automatic F because at least I put something down. It has taken a lot of struggle and self-reflection for me to be the writer that I am today. While I have much to learn from and I still make simple mistakes, I am proud to say that I have improved dramatically in the way that I write. I no longer just put words on a document to get a grade, I go back and read my work and make sure that I am one hundred percent satisfied with the work that I have done. Even after I submit my work I go back and check what it is that I could I have improved upon. I could have said this better or worded this differently to deliver a more powerful message. I am constantly trying to improve my vocabulary so that I am not one dimensional and predictable. 

This course has allowed me to really express myself through writing, I feel free in my writing and do not feel restricted to a certain type of writing just to satisfy the other person on the screen reading my work. I am allowed to be me, take any direction I want, and confidently say whatever it is that I have on my mind or state however I feel towards a certain topic and not be judge for my opinions but rather my delivery. Society is all about putting people in boxes and trying to categorize people. It is nice to know that I can come to this course and have some type of escape for those categories even if it is temporarily. 

In delving into literature, I have forged my own pathways, I have developed strategies and perspectives that diverge from the traditional methods I encountered in high school. Back then, I often found the prescribed strategies to be limiting, constraining the interpretation of texts to a single dimension. However, my approach now is far more critical and multifaceted. Instead of accepting interpretations at face value, I engage with literature through a lens of inquiry, constantly questioning the effectiveness of the message delivery and considering alternative ways it could have been articulated while maintaining its intended tone. This analytical mindset enables me to dissect texts with precision, probing beyond the surface to discern the underlying intentions of the writer and the nuanced choices they make in their expression. 

Contemplating language attitudes has been an enlightening journey, revealing the intricate ways in which language norms can either empower or marginalize individuals within society. Recognizing the disparities inherent in language usage has broadened my perspective on societal dynamics and the complex interplay of power structures at play. Engaging with various writing styles has been a richly rewarding experience, offering me a diverse toolkit to express myself creatively and analytically. From dissecting persuasive essays to crafting my own narratives, each encounter has deepened my understanding of the nuanced artistry behind effective communication.  Evolving my writing strategies has been a process of continual improvement and adaptation. Through active reading, collaborative efforts, and iterative revisions, I have honed my approach to crafting coherent and impactful written pieces. Yet, I remain committed to further refining these strategies to achieve even greater clarity and organization in my writing.  

Delving into rhetorical strategies has been both fascinating and challenging, as I strive to incorporate ethos, pathos, and logos effectively into my persuasive writing. While I have made strides in applying these techniques, there’s still room for growth in consistently leveraging them to engage and persuade my audience more profoundly. Embracing both print and digital technologies has been essential in navigating today’s multifaceted communication landscape. From traditional essays to modern presentations, I have explored diverse formats to effectively convey my message across different mediums. However, I recognize the importance of ongoing learning to harness technology more adeptly and reach diverse audiences with greater impact. 

As I conclude this self-assessment essay, I reflect on the journey of growth and transformation that I have undergone as a writer. From the daunting moments of staring at a blank page, unsure of where to begin, to the realization that writing is not merely a task to fulfill but a form of expression to be honed and cherished, my perspective has evolved significantly. Through introspection and perseverance, I have transitioned from a writer who settled for mediocrity to one who strives for excellence, constantly refining my skills and striving for improvement. This course has provided me with the space to explore my voice, unbound by societal constraints, and empowered me to approach literature with a newfound sense of curiosity and critical insight. As I continue this journey, I carry with me the lessons learned and confidence gained, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead in my writing. 

In my personal opinion this essay was very interesting. I don’t know exactly how to feel about it, it didn’t strike any emotion for me. I understand the point of the essay but I feel as if I was writing it just to complete this assignment and not really to gain anything as I was typing.

Waneshka Mendez 

4/24/2024 

English 110 

Prof. Jason Lobell 

Exploring Language Discrimination in Societal Dynamics 

Language serves as a cornerstone of human communication and identity, profoundly influencing both individual experiences and societal interactions, despite the rich tapestry of linguistic diversity that enriches our global community, discrimination based on language remains a pervasive social issue. This research paper aims to delve into the intricate dimensions of language discrimination, shedding light on its profound and wide-ranging effects on individuals and communities alike. Such discrimination not only hampers cultural advancement by marginalizing those who do not conform to linguistic norms but also erects barriers to communication, fostering social isolation and impeding the cohesion essential for thriving communities. Furthermore, it undermines individual dignity and stifles the collective strength of society by disregarding the contribution and perspective of those whose voices are undervalued. Given these implications, addressing language-based discrimination emerges as an urgent imperative for fostering inclusivity and embracing the richness of linguistic diversity within our communities. 

Language discrimination manifests in myriad forms across different spheres of life, from education and employment to healthcare and public services. In educational settings, for instance, students who speak non-dominant languages may face unequal  

access to resources and opportunities, leading to disparities in academic achievement. Similarly, in the workplace, language bias can result in hiring practices that favor individuals who speak certain languages fluently, disadvantaging those who are multilingual or come from linguistic minority backgrounds. Moreover, in healthcare settings, language barriers can impede effective communication between patients and healthcare providers, compromising the quality of care and exacerbating health disparities. By examining these real-world examples of language discrimination, we gain a deeper understanding of its pervasive and far-reaching impacts on individuals’ lives and the broader fabric of society. 

Central to comprehensively addressing language discrimination is the utilization of credible sources that provide empirical evidence and scholarly insights into this complex social phenomenon. By drawing from a diverse range of reputable sources, we can deepen our understanding of the multifaceted nature of language discrimination and its implications for individuals and societies. In the following section, I will present a curated selection of sources that encompass scholarly articles, research studies, and authoritative publications, each offering valuable perspectives and analyses on the topic at hand. For instance, Safwat Saleem, in his YouTube video titled “Why I keep speaking up, even when people mock my accent”, eloquently articulates the personal challenges faced by individuals who endure ridicule due to their language accents. Similarly, Jamila Lyiscott’s insightful TED Talk “3 ways to speak English” offers alternative perspectives on language usage and challenges prevailing notions of linguistic superiority. Furthermore, the timeless essay “Shooting an Elephant” by George Orwell, available through The Orwell Foundation, provides a thought-provoking examination of language’s power dynamics within colonial contexts. Additionally, Amy Tan’s essay “Mother Tongue” delves into the intricacies of language identity and the societal implications of linguistic discrimination, offering poignant anecdotes and reflections. Each of these sources contributes unique insights to our understanding of language discrimination, enriching our discourse and guiding us towards more inclusive and equitable practices within our communities. 

In Amy Tan’s essay “Mother Tongue,” she talks about the relationship that she has between language, identity, and societal expectations. Tan talks about her experience with her mother’s “broken” English, she highlights the struggles and misunderstanding that arise because of her language differences. She reflects on the various forms of English spoken within her family; it ranges from the “watered-down” version used at home to the more formal English which is employed in public settings. Through her own personal anecdotes, Tan shows the complexities of language dynamics, demonstrating how language proficiency does not necessarily correlate with intelligence or capability. She points out, “I spend a great deal of my time thinking about the power of language – the way it can evoke an emotion, a visual image, a complex idea, or a simple truth,” Tan emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and embracing linguistic diversity, arguing that language is not just a tool for communication but also a reflection of one’s cultural heritage and personal identity. She asserts, “I am a writer. And by that definition, I am someone who has always loved language. I am fascinated by language in daily life.” Tan’s essay serves as a poignant reminder of the social and cultural significance of language, urging readers to challenge stereotypes and embrace the richness of linguistic diversity.  

In George Orwell’s essay “Shooting an Elephant,” he offers a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with the complexities of language discrimination within colonial contexts. Orwell recounts his experience as a British colonial police officer in Burma, where he is confronted with the daunting task of shooting a rogue elephant that has killed a local man. Embedded within this narrative is the pervasive influence of language as a tool of power and control. Orwell describes the pressure he feels to conform to the expectations of the Burmese crowd, whose perception of him as a representative of colonial authority hinges on his ability to assert dominance over the situation. This pressure mirrors the societal expectations imposed on individuals to adhere to linguistic norms and hierarchies, even at the expense of their own moral integrity. Orwell’s internal conflict underscores the coercive nature of language discrimination, where the fear of judgment and ostracization compels individuals to suppress their authentic voices and conform to oppressive linguistic standards. Through his vivid portrayal of the moral dilemmas inherent in colonialism, Orwell prompts readers to reflect on the insidious ways in which language discrimination perpetuates systems of power and oppression, both historically and in contemporary society.  

In Jamila Lyiscott’s compelling TED Talk, “3 Ways to Speak English,” she confronts the pervasive issue of language discrimination through a lens of linguistic diversity and empowerment. Lyiscott challenges the notion of a singular, standardized form of English by presenting three distinct “codes” of English: the language of the home, the language of the school, and the language of the community. By acknowledging and celebrating the multiplicity of English-speaking experiences, Lyiscott disrupts the traditional hierarchy that places certain dialects or accents above others. Her talk resonates deeply with the struggles faced by individuals who speak non-standard varieties of English and who are often marginalized or stigmatized as a result. Lyiscott’s emphasis on the importance of valuing and preserving diverse linguistic traditions serves as a powerful antidote to language discrimination, encouraging listeners to embrace linguistic diversity as a source of strength rather than a marker of inferiority. Through her impassioned advocacy for linguistic justice, Lyiscott inspires viewers to challenge prevailing norms and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society where all forms of English are recognized and respected. 

In Safwat Saleem’s poignant TED Talk, “Why I keep Speaking Up, Even When People Mock My Accent,” he courageously shares his personal experiences with language discrimination and the resilience he embodies in the face of adversity. Saleem’s narrative sheds light on the profound impact of accent-based discrimination on individuals’ sense of self-worth and belonging. He articulates the challenges he has faced due to his accent, recounting instances of ridicule and marginalization from others. Saleem’s unwavering commitment to speaking up despite the mockery he endures underscores the importance of reclaiming agency and asserting one’s voice in the face of discrimination. His video serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of individuals who refuse to be silenced by societal biases and expectations. By sharing his story, Saleem not only raises awareness about the pervasive issue of language discrimination but also inspires others to embrace their identities and speak out against injustice. Through his advocacy for self-expression and authenticity, Saleem empowers viewers to challenge stereotypes and celebrate the richness of linguistic diversity in our communities. 

In examining the pervasive issue of language discrimination, insights from various scholarly articles provide valuable perspectives on its impact on language learners and educational settings. Lippi-Green’s (1997) article, “Language Discrimination: An Unnoticed Barrier to ESL Instruction,” sheds light on the subtle yet significant barriers faced by English as a Second Language (ESL) learners in educational environments. Similarly, Li and Lyster (2017) delve into the experiences of international graduate students in Canada in their article, “Perceived Discrimination in English as a Second Language Classrooms,” highlighting the detrimental effects of perceived discrimination on language acquisition and academic success. Furthermore, Harper et al. (2019) contribute to this discourse with their article, “Language-Based Discrimination in Schools: A Problem of Practice,” which examines the systemic nature of language discrimination in educational policy and practice. Together, these articles underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to address language discrimination in educational settings and foster inclusive learning environments that support linguistic diversity and equitable access to education. 

In exploring the intricate dynamics of language discrimination, various sources—from scholarly articles to personal narratives—offer invaluable insights into its pervasive nature and far-reaching consequences. Safwat Saleem’s courageous recounting of his experiences with accent-based discrimination underscores the deeply personal impact of language biases, shedding light on the resilience required to navigate such challenges. Similarly, scholarly research by authors such as Lippi-Green, Li, Lyster, Harper, and their colleagues provides nuanced perspectives on the systemic nature of language discrimination in educational settings and beyond. From Lippi-Green’s exploration of the barriers faced by ESL learners to Li and Lyster’s examination of perceived discrimination among international students, and Harper et al.’s analysis of language-based discrimination in schools, a comprehensive understanding of the issue emerges. Collectively, these sources highlight the urgent need for proactive measures to address language discrimination, foster inclusive environments, and celebrate the richness of linguistic diversity. Through advocacy, education, and policy reform, we can work towards a future where every individual is valued and respected for their unique linguistic heritage and expression. By challenging stereotypes, amplifying marginalized voices, and embracing linguistic diversity, we can build a more equitable and inclusive society where language discrimination has no place. 

Works Cited 

• Saleem, Safwat “Why I keep speaking up, even when people mock my accent” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4a0NvLTebw 
• Lyiscott, Jamila “3 ways to speak English” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9fmJ5xQ_mc 
• Orwell, George. “Shooting an Elephant.” The Orwell Foundation, 18 Jan. 2024, www.orwellfoundation.com/the-orwell-foundation/orwell/essays-and-other-works/shooting-an-elephant/. 
• Tan, Amy. Mother Tongue, by Amy Tan, www.umsl.edu/~alexanderjm/Mother Tongue by Tan.pdf. Accessed 28 Apr. 2024. 

1. Article Title: “Language Discrimination: An Unnoticed Barrier to ESL Instruction” 

• Authors: Lippi-Green, Rosina 
• Journal: TESOL Quarterly 
• Year: 1997 

2. Article Title: “Perceived Discrimination in English as a Second Language Classrooms: Insights from International Graduate Students in Canada” 

• Authors: Li, Huan, and Roy Lyster 
• Journal: The Modern Language Journal 
• Year: 2017 

3. Article Title: “Language-Based Discrimination in Schools: A problem of Practice” 

• Authors: Harper, Rhonda, et al. 
• Journal: Educational Policy 
• Year: 2019