Do the research:
Explain what an arrow drawing of languages English and IsiZulu is by looking at the following extract:
According to the linguistic diagram, the languages are arranged respectively. But what is noticeable is that there are languages that are far from each other. This is due to reasons many, some of them discussed at work of researchers such as Johnson (1968); Drummond (1980) and Willemyns and Bister (1989).
1. By reviewing the relevant literature, discuss the various conceptualizations of and around the notion of the
"language continuum".
The concept of a language continuum refers to a situation where there is a gradual transition between different languages or dialects, rather than a clear-cut boundary separating them. This idea challenges the traditional view of languages as discrete and separate entities, suggesting instead that they exist on a spectrum where one language gradually blends into another.
One conceptualization of a language continuum is based on the idea of mutual intelligibility. This concept posits that speakers of closely related languages or dialects can understand each other to some extent, but as the distance between the languages increases, understanding becomes more difficult. This can create a continuum where languages at one end are easily understood by speakers of neighboring languages, while languages at the other end may be completely unintelligible.
Another way to conceptualize a language continuum is through the notion of linguistic diversity. This perspective views languages as part of a complex network of interconnected systems, with each language influencing and being influenced by its neighbors. In this view, languages can be seen as constantly evolving and adapting to their surrounding linguistic environment, leading to a gradual blending of features and characteristics.
The concept of a language continuum also raises questions about the traditional categorization of languages into distinct families or groups. Instead of viewing languages as entirely separate entities, some researchers argue for a more fluid and dynamic classification system that takes into account the gradual transitions and overlaps between languages.
Overall, the notion of a language continuum challenges our traditional understanding of language boundaries and invites us to consider languages as part of a larger, interconnected web of linguistic diversity. This perspective highlights the complexity and richness of language variation, emphasizing the continuous and evolving nature of language relationships.