How to Talk Language Science with Everybody

Do you want to talk about the linguistic research that you think is important but you don't know where to start? Language is a topic that is relevant to everyone, and linguists are often asked to speak publicly about their research, to a range of lay audiences in the media, politics, festivals and fairs, schools, museums and public libraries. However, relaying this vital information in an engaging way can often feel like an insurmountable task. This accessible guide offers practical advice on how to talk about language to a range of non-academic audiences. It draws on the linguistics behind effective communication to help you have cooperative conversations, and to organize your information for a diverse range of people. It is illustrated with a wealth of examples from real-life scenarios, and includes chapter-by-chapter worksheets, enabling you to make your own fun and interesting language science activities to share with others.

Laura Wagner is Professor in the Department of Psychology at the Ohio State University. She directs the Language Sciences Research Lab at the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) in Columbus, OH.

Cecile McKee is Professor in the Department of Linguistics at the University of Arizona, where she directs the Developmental Psycholinguistics Lab. The American Association for the Advancement of Science recently recognized her service in promoting public awareness of the significance of linguistic study.