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English Language A level Essay Response

What could I write about for this question?

Evaluate the idea that a persons language use is determined more by external factors that the unique characteristics of the individual user.

I don’t know how to write it either. Could anyone give an example planning of how you would write this response

Reply 1

Lit teacher

That's quite a wide question; external factors could refer to cultural influences or a precise set of circumstances.
You could start by looking at cultural /social factors, such as dialect, socialect etc. Giles accommodation theory would also fit here, with some people's language changing to match that of people they admire. There is also the issue of prestige varieties, which makes some people speak differently to avoid being judged negatively. Mention external influences such as parents.
Then maybe look at the effect of context. Refer to code-switching, when speakers adapt lexis and sometimes accent depending on where, why and to whom they are speaking. For example, many people have a 'telephone voice' and will switch varieties between home, school and work.