Current Insights into Sociolinguistics for ELT

Abstract

Abstract: This present paper discusses the necessity for English language teachers in Algeria to be aware of the social and cultural aspects that influence the use of English in Algeria. This idea of awareness-raising is believed to help both language teachers and learners alike to be attained by stressing the contribution of sociolinguistics in language elaboration programs beyond determining what kind of language is appropriate in interpersonal interactions to recognizing language as a social institution that influences attitudes and behaviors. Sociolinguistic profiles should be, therefore, conceived as a Socio-cultural framework for distinguishing characteristics of English users and users in the Algerian context. This kind of framework is used to support pragmatically EFL teacher education. Keywords: Algeria, ELT, foreign language education, sociolinguistics.