EXPLORING THE ROLE OF SPEECH VARIATION IN

ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING: INSIGHTS AND IMPLICATIONS

Abstract
This article explores the role of speech variation in English language teaching through a
literature review. Language is a complex phenomenon closely related to the society in which it is
used. Understanding speech variation in the English language is crucial in developing effective
and responsive teaching approaches. The study of speech variation has gained interest in
language education research, as it reflects social and cultural aspects, as well as individual
identities within a community. Language variation can influence linguistic behavior among
speakers, and factors such as social status, language situation, time, culture, and individual
characteristics can affect language variation. In the context of English language teaching,
understanding speech variation is essential for teachers to recognize and comprehend the
language variation within society and how it impacts student communication and
comprehension. This understanding enables the development of responsive teaching
approaches that consider speech variation and assist students in language skill development.
Additionally, English language teachers can help students adapt to different language variations,
which is important for their daily interactions with English speakers from diverse backgrounds.
Understanding speech variation also promotes cultural understanding and allows students to
develop broader communication skills. This article aims to provide insights into the importance
of understanding speech variation in English language teaching and how this understanding can
influence teaching and learning strategies. Through a systematic literature analysis, the article
explores the influence of speech variation in the context of English language education from
both student and teacher perspectives. The literature review findings will guide the
development of responsive teaching approaches and effective learning strategies in English
language education.
Keywords: language variation, speech variation, English language teaching, communication
skills, cultural understanding.

INTRODUCTION
Language is a complex phenomenon that is closely related to the society in which it is
used. Aside from being a means of communication, language also reflects social, cultural, and
individual identity aspects in a community. In the context of English language education, an
understanding of speech variations or language variations that exist in society has an important
role in developing an effective and responsive teaching approach.
The study of speech variations in English has become an interesting topic in language
education research. Speech variations include differences in the use of words, phrases,
intonation, accents, dialects, and speech styles that occur between speakers of English. This
variation is a reflection of the social and cultural contexts in which language is used, as well as
individual differences in language use. Language variations can influence the linguistic behavior
of different speakers. Factors such as social status, language situation, time, culture, and
individuals can influence the variety of languages used by society (Putri, 2020).
 In the context of teaching English, an understanding of speech variations is very
important. English teachers need to recognize and understand the variations in language that
exist in society and how these variations affect students' communication and understanding.
Through this understanding, teachers can develop responsive teaching approaches that take
into account variations in speech and help students develop language skills more effectively. In
addition, with an understanding of speech variations, English teachers can help students to
develop adaptability to various existing language variations. This is important because in
everyday life, students will interact with English speakers from various backgrounds and
different language variations. With this understanding, students can more easily communicate
and interact with people who use different language variations (Larasaty, et al, 2022).
Speech variations in English are often related to certain cultural and social contexts. By
understanding speech variations, students can better understand the culture and social context
behind the English spoken. This can help students to develop a deeper understanding of
English-speaking culture and society (Saputri, et al, 2021). An understanding of speech
variations allows students to develop broader communication skills. They will be able to use
language variations to suit different situations and audiences. For example, they may learn to
use formal language in formal situations or informal language in casual situations. This will help
students to become more effective communicators in a variety of contexts.
In teaching English, it is important to appreciate and respect the diversity of languages
that exist. An understanding of speech variations helps students to appreciate language
variations and avoid discriminatory attitudes towards certain language variations. This is
important in building a learning environment that is inclusive and respects diversity (Santoso,
2023).
To explore the role of speech variation in teaching English, a literature study approach is
the right method. In this literature study, we will conduct an in-depth review of related studies
and other sources relevant to this theme. Through a systematic analysis of the literature, we will
explore the effect of speech variation in the context of English education, from both the student
and teacher perspectives.
This article aims to provide insight into the importance of understanding speech
variations in teaching English and how this understanding can influence teaching and learning
strategies. We will explore how speech variations affect student communication and
comprehension, and how teachers can integrate speech variations into teaching in an effective
way.
Thus, this literature study is expected to provide a better understanding of the role of
speech variation in teaching English. The findings and implications of this literature review will
provide valuable guidance for the development of responsive teaching approaches and effective
learning strategies in the context of English education.

RESEARCH METHODS
This study uses a literature study approach to explore speech variations in teaching
English. A literature study is carried out by conducting a systematic review of related studies,
scientific articles, books, and other sources that are relevant to the theme of this research.
The first step in this research method is to identify keywords that are appropriate to the
research topic, such as "speech variation," "English language teaching," "cross-cultural
communication," and "language identity." A literature search was then carried out using
academic databases and digital libraries which provide access to relevant scientific sources.
Furthermore, a literature selection process was carried out which involved making
decisions based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria include relevance to the
research topic, year of publication, and research quality. Relevant sources were selected for in-
depth review, while sources that were irrelevant or did not meet the exclusion criteria were
excluded from the literature review.
After the literature is selected, a systematic analysis of the contents of the literature is
carried out which involves collecting data, organizing the data, and synthesizing the findings
that emerge. The data collected includes information about relevant theories, the research
methodology used, the main findings, and the implications of the research related to speech
variation in teaching English.
During the analysis process, this research method also involves a critical evaluation of
the strengths and weaknesses of the research being reviewed, as well as the identification of
research gaps that can be a source of inspiration for further research.
The results of this literature review will be presented systematically in the form of a
summary of the relevant findings. Analysis of these findings will help build a more
comprehensive understanding of the role of speech variety in teaching English and provide a
foundation for the development of responsive teaching approaches.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Speech Variations in Teaching English
Speech variation refers to differences in the use of language that occur in everyday
communication between members of different communities. These variations can occur in
various aspects of language such as pronunciation, intonation, vocabulary, grammar, and
speaking style. Speech variation is the result of a variety of social, cultural, geographic, and
individual factors that influence the way people communicate.
At the individual level, variations in speech can reflect a person's background, identity,
education, and life experiences. At the group level, speech variations can differentiate
communities based on factors such as age, gender, educational level, ethnicity, or social group.
Each speech community has distinctive language patterns and norms, which produce speech
variations that differ from one community to another.
It is important to remember that speech variations are not errors or deviations from
correct or incorrect language, but rather a reflection of the richness and variety of languages
that exist in society. Speech variety also plays an important role in shaping the cultural and
social identity of individuals and their communities.
In the context of teaching English, understanding speech variations is important because
students need to be familiar with the various styles and variations of language used in real
communication situations. Teaching that is responsive to speech variations helps students to
develop effective communication skills and respect the diversity of languages that exist in
society (Waridah, 2015).
Types of Speech Variations
Here are several types of speech variations that can be found in teaching English:
1. Social variety: Language variations can occur based on the speaker's social status. For
example, formal language is used in official or business situations, and informal language
is used in casual or intimate situations (Rosdiana, et al, 2021).
2. Variety of speakers' functions: Language variations can also occur based on speakers'
functions. For example, the language used in business situations, the language used in
formal or official situations, the language used in relaxed or familiar situations, and the
language used in work situations (Nuraini, 2022).
3. Regional variations: Language variations may occur based on regions or geographic
regions. For example, the variation of English spoken in the United States, Britain,
Australia, or Canada
4. Cultural variations: Language variations can also occur based on a particular culture or
social context. For example, the language used in formal or official situations, the
language used in casual or intimate situations, and the language used in business
situations (Bima, 2022)
In teaching English, an understanding of these types of speech variations can help teachers
to accommodate the language differences that exist among their students and develop
students' communication skills in various English contexts.

Implications of Speech Variations in Teaching English

The implications of speech variation in teaching English can include the following:
1. Accommodate diversity: An understanding of speech variation enables teachers to
accommodate the language differences that exist among their students. Teachers can
help students understand the variety of languages used by native English speakers from
various regions or social groups (Rahayu & Nasuha, 2018).
2. Improving communication skills: An understanding of speech variations allows teachers
to help students develop a wider range of communication skills. Students will learn to
use language appropriate to different situations and contexts, be it formal, informal, or
the language used in business situations. This will help students become more effective
communicators in various communication situations (Santoso, 2023).
3. Appreciate cultural diversity: An understanding of speech variations also helps students
to appreciate the cultural diversity associated with English. Teachers can teach students
about the culture and social context associated with the variety of languages they are
learning. This will help students understand and respect the diversity of cultures that
exist in the English-speaking world (Darmayanti, 2022).
4. Improve understanding of language: An understanding of speech variations helps
students to understand that English is not only limited to one form or variation. Students
will learn that English has distinct regional, social and contextual variations. This will help
students to develop a broader understanding of English and improve their ability to
understand the various language variations they encounter (Sunarmi & Fatimah, 2021).
With an understanding of speech variation, English teachers can help students develop
broader communication skills, understand the culture associated with English, and appreciate
language diversity. This will help students become more effective and skilled communicators in
a variety of English contexts.

Responsive Teaching Approach to Speech Variations

An approach to teaching English that is responsive to variations in speech refers to an
approach that pays attention to and accommodates differences in language use that occur in
society. Following are some of the implications of this approach:
1. Recognition and appreciation of speech variations: This approach recognizes and
respects speech variations that exist in society. The English teacher will teach students
about the variety of languages used by native English speakers from various regions or
social groups. This helps students understand and appreciate the diversity of languages
that exist (Wardah, 2015).
2. Development of broad communication skills: A responsive approach to speech variations
helps students develop broader communication skills. The teacher will teach students to
use language appropriate to different situations and contexts, be it formal, informal, or
language used in business situations. This helps students become more effective
communicators in a variety of communication situations.
3. Teaching-related culture: This approach also pays attention to cultural aspects related to
speech variations. Teachers will teach students about the culture and social context
associated with the variety of languages they learn. This helps students understand and
respect the diversity of cultures that exist in the English-speaking world.
4. Use of diverse materials and resources: A responsive approach to speech variation
involves using materials and resources that reflect existing language variations. The
teacher will use various types of text, audio, and video that represent variations in
speech in teaching English. This helps students to get used to the variety of languages
they encounter in everyday life (Santoso, 2023).
With an approach to teaching English that is responsive to speech variations, teachers can
help students develop broad communication skills, respect language diversity, and understand
English in various cultural contexts. This will help students become more effective and skilled
communicators in using English in everyday life.

Previous Research on Speech Variation

Following are some relevant previous studies on speech variation in teaching English:
1. The Speech Act of Requesting in English by Indonesian Speakers and Native Australian
English Speakers: An Interlingual Pragmatic Study by Handayani (2016). This study uses a
comparative approach to describe the forms and strategies of requesting speech acts in
English by native Indonesian and Australian English speakers. Data was collected through
discourse completion tasks and interviews.
2. Language Variations in Overseas Students at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences,
Mulawarman University: A Sociolinguistic Study by Wati, Rijal, & Hanum (2020). This
study uses a descriptive approach to describe language variations and the factors that
cause language variations among international students at a university in Indonesia.
Data collection was carried out through questionnaires and interviews.
 3. Language Variations in a Child's Speech in a Multilingual Society (Case Study of 12-Year-
Old Children in a Family in the City of Bandung) by Prihandini & Isnendes (2020). Data
collection was carried out using the listening and speaking method and observation of
speakers. Primary data is done through observation and interviews.

Implications Of Previous Studies In Teaching English

Based on previous studies related to language variation in teaching English, several
implications can be drawn for teachers and language learners:
1. Language variety is a natural and common phenomenon in language use, and it must be
recognized and respected in language teaching and learning (Wat, et al, 2020).
2. Teachers and students must be aware of the differences in linguistic resources available
to them and use them appropriately in different contexts and situations (Handayani,
2016).
3. Teachers must be trained to recognize and deal with language variations in their classes,
and use them as a means of building relationships and creating a positive learning
environment (Khoerunnisa, 2022).
4. Learners should be encouraged to expand their linguistic repertoire and use it creatively
and effectively in their communications.
5. Instructional materials and language curricula should reflect the diversity of language
use and provide opportunities for learners to develop their language skills in different
contexts and situations.
Overall, previous studies show that language variety is an important aspect of language
teaching and learning, and that teachers and learners should be aware of its implications and
use them effectively in their communication.

Factors Affecting Speech Variation in Teaching English

Factors that influence speech variation in teaching English may include:
1. Learning Model: The teaching method used can influence the variation of speech in
learning English. The use of various methods, such as the use of multimedia, educational
applications, songs, or technology-based teaching, can enrich the variety of speech in
class (Jati, 2018).
2. Learning Materials: The content of teaching materials used in learning English can also
affect variations in speech. Diverse and interesting material can create situations that
motivate students to speak with more creative and diverse variations of speech (Hanafi,
et al, 2022).
3. Teacher Creativity: The teacher's role in choosing and using variations of speech in
learning interactions is also very important. The teacher's creativity in determining and
using various types of teaching methods can increase student learning motivation and
enrich the variety of speech in the class (Darmayanti, 2022).
4. Learning Environment: A supportive and inclusive learning environment can also
influence speech variation in learning English. An environment that facilitates interaction
between students with various cultural and linguistic backgrounds can encourage
variations in speech in class (Syawal, 2022).
 5. Technology: The use of technology in learning English, such as educational applications,
multimedia, or online learning platforms, can provide a richer variety of speech.
Technology can introduce students to various variations of speech through audio, video,
and interaction with various English sources (Wahyuningrum, 2022).
However, it should be noted that these factors can be interconnected and influence each
other. For example, the use of technology in learning can affect the learning methods used and
also affect the variation of speech in class. In addition, these factors may vary depending on the
learning context and student characteristics.

CONCLUSION
The study of speech variations in English has an important role in the development of
effective and responsive teaching approaches. An understanding of speech variations enables
teachers to accommodate language differences that exist in society and helps students develop
language skills more effectively. Speech variety also plays an important role in shaping the
cultural and social identity of individuals and their communities.
In the context of teaching English, an understanding of speech variations enables
teachers to develop responsive teaching approaches, respect language variations, improve
students' communication skills, and teach students about the culture associated with English. In
implementing a responsive teaching approach, teachers need to recognize and understand the
variations in speech that exist in society and how these variations affect student communication
and understanding.
The literature study method is an appropriate approach to explore the role of speech
variation in teaching English. In the literature study, an in-depth review of related studies and
other relevant sources was carried out to explore the effect of speech variations in the context
of English education, both from the perspective of students and teachers. The results of this
literature review provide insight into the importance of understanding speech variations in
teaching English and how this understanding can influence teaching and learning strategies.
Previous research has also revealed the implications of speech variation in teaching
English, including accommodating diversity, improving communication skills, respecting cultural
diversity, and increasing students' understanding of language. In teaching English, teachers can
apply teaching approaches that are responsive to speech variations by recognizing and
respecting speech variations, developing students' communication skills, teaching the culture
associated with English, and using diverse materials and resources.
Several factors influence speech variation in teaching English including learning models,
learning materials, teacher creativity, learning environment, and technology. These factors are
interconnected and can influence speech variations in learning English.
Overall, an understanding of speech variation in teaching English is important for
developing responsive teaching approaches, respecting language variety, improving students'
communication skills, and understanding English in various cultural contexts. This literature
study provides a better understanding of the role of speech variety in teaching English and
provides a valuable guide for the development of responsive teaching approaches and effective
learning strategies in the context of English education.
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