ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the uses of dialects and language variations, focusing on the idea that language variations and dialects are tools that authors use purposefully and strategically when constructing characters. It begins with an overview of the concept of dialect and examples of language variation across different dialects. The chapter then discusses the importance of dialects and language variations to effective writing, incorporating examples from published texts to show the impact of these grammatical concepts on written works. Next, the chapter presents a classroom snapshot section, which features a fifth-grade teacher’s work helping her students understand this concept. The chapter then provides key recommendations for teaching students about dialects and language variations in writing. It concludes with final thoughts on this topic and a series of steps teachers can use to support students who need extra assistance understanding dialects and language variations.
