In “Literacy, Discourse, and Linguistics” Gee discusses the “constant tests” for individuals whose discourse in question is not their dominant. An individual develops a dominant discourse through their initial socialization, based on their position, culture, or status. In order to interact properly in situations that don’t require their primary discourse, individuals must develop secondary discourses through interaction. These can be thought of as almost different languages, or at least different ways of speaking and interacting. For example, my neutral language is fairly casual, with the use of colloquialisms and other unique language elements. However, when I am in a formal interview or other situation, I adopt a much more formal, ‘correct’ way of speaking. This would be a secondary discourse for me.
The purpose of the “tests” is for individuals to determine whether others do indeed possess the proper discourse and belong in the situation that they are in within the community. This is described at as being the “right” person, in the “right” place, at the “right” time. This implies that possessing a secondary discourse involves more that language skills, but specific situational social skills as well. An example of this would be when one starts a new job. It is always difficult for me when starting a new job to figure out the correct way to speak and act while performing the job. One must aquire the skills and experience to act and speak correctly in certain situations. In addition, coworkers are constantly applying the “tests” to determine if you are going to be a good employee; if you possess the proper discourse for the situation.
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