Language and Culture Relationship
The relationship between language and culture is a complex one. The two are intertwined. A particular language usually points out to a specific group of people. When you interact with another language, it means that you are also interacting with the culture that speaks the language. You cannot understand one's culture without accessing its language directly.
Culture?
There seems to be no all-encompassing definition of culture owing to the fact that it contains so many elements that may be left out during definition, However, in all the definitions, you realize that culture is actually learned.
The word "CULTURE" is derived from the Latin term COLERE which means "to grow.
Which Came First: Language or Culture?
Language and culture are closely linked to each other, and throughout history, they have grown in tandem.
In the first instance, the rudiments of language were necessary for the establishment of culture. If culture can be likened to a living cell, then language is its DNA, encoding cultural information and making possible its transmission.
Brittanica states "language interacts with every aspect of human life in society, and it can be understood only if it is considered in relation to society".
The Interdependence Between Language & Culture:
The relationship between language and culture is a complex one. The two are intertwined.
A particular language usually points out to a specific group of people. When you interact with another language, it means that you are also interacting with the culture that speaks the language.
Cultural Awareness in Language Teaching:
Teaching English is not only about teaching grammar and vocabulary, it is also about helping students understand and appreciate different cultures.
In a globalized world, where people from different countries and cultures interact with each other more than ever, cultural awareness has become a vital aspect of language teaching
Teachers Creating an Equitable Classroom Climate:
Teachers must be intentional about eliminating bias and creating a culturally responsive classroom climate. Each of us has biases that influence how we talk and relate to students and colleagues.
Language and culture teachers, educational trainers, and anyone interested in cultural diversity in education.