SOAS Research Online

Abstract

In endangered language contexts where family language links have been broken, most native speakers are now of grandparent generation or older; they may not speak the language frequently. The parent generation are usually not fluent, but without proficient adult speakers there can be no intergenerational language transmission, either in schools or in the family. Developing fluency among adults is a vital element of effective language planning, if language revitalisation is to be more than symbolic. This chapter investigates how adults wishing to develop/improve/regain fluency in a highly endangered language, Guernesiais (Guernsey, Channel Islands), attempt to move from being learners or latent speakers to becoming new speakers. On the way they navigate challenges such as work and family commitments, gender stereotypes, societal and community ideologies. The analysis is based on interviews with nearly 40 participants, as well as participant and non-participant observation of initiatives that promote language transmission among adults: both formal lessons and less formal activities.