This module will introduce you to fundamental concepts and approaches involved in the study of the ways in which language reflects society. We will study how variation in language relates to social factors like gender, age, social class, and ethnicity. We will also consider the social contexts under which language varies, and connect the variation found in everyday speech to the larger forces that drive language change over time. This module will feature hands-on research, allowing you to collect data on how people use language in real life, as well as quantitative analysis skills.