English Language A-Level
Sociolect
What Sociolect means in English Language A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Sociolect
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
A variety of language associated with a particular social group (e.g., based on age, class, or occupation).
A variety of language associated with a particular social group or social class.
A variety of language associated with a specific social group.
Topics that use Sociolect
- Component 1: Language Variation (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Component 3 – Topic area: Language and Journalism (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Component 3 – Topic area: Regional Language Variation (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
Using Sociolect in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
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