* An introduction to the sociolinguistic and paralinguistic aspects of language use in African American communities; sociocultural and historical contexts and development; notions about grammar and discourse; the significance of naming and the pall of race and racism in discussions and research of language variation and change
* Activities and discussion questions which invite readers to consider their own perspectives on language use in African American communities and how it manifests in their own lives and communities
* Links to relevant videos, stories, music, and digital media that represent language use in African American communities
