The Four Layers
of Language
Policy
E-2B: Group 1
The Four Layers of Language Policy
Language policy is a complex and multi-faceted
field that encompasses various levels of decision-
making and implementation. Ricento and Hornberger
(1996) outlined four layers on the ‘onion’ where
language planning, policy, and practice occur.
This presentation will explore the four key layers
that shape language policy, from high-level
legislation to classroom practices.
The 4 1.Legislation and Political
Layers Process
2.States and Supranational
of Agencies
Language 3.Institutions
4.Classroom Practitioners
Policy
Legislation and Political Processes
• The language policy refers to the actions taken by the
government to regulate language use, promote language
skills, and protect language rights.
• It can include legislation, court decisions, and policies that
determine how languages are used in the country.
Legislation and Political Processes
1 National Laws 2 Official Status 3 Language Rights
Top-down Determining Enshrining
language the official language
policies languages rights and
established recognized protections
through and for minority
national promoted and
legislation by the state. indigenous
and political groups.
processes.
States and Supranational Agencies
Supranational means multinational union is an
association of countries that voluntarily delegate
authority and sovereignty on certain internal matters
to the group. The unions decision are binding on its
members and it has the power to intervene in
member states affairs.
States and Supranational Agencies
Intergovernmental Regional Cooperation Global Trends
Organizations
Language policies Language policies shaped Emerging global
and practices influenced through regional economic norms and initiatives
by supranational bodies and political integration, such that impact national
like the European Union as the European Charter for and local language
or the United Nations. Regional or Minority policies, like the
Languages. promotion of
multilingualism.
Institutions
Educational Institutions Workplace Policies
Language policies and Language requirements
practices within schools, and norms that shape
universities, and other communication and
educational settings. interactions in professional
environments.
Cultural Organizations
Language preservation and promotion efforts by
museums, arts centers, and other cultural institutions.
Classroom Practitioners
1 Instructional Approaches
Teachers' decisions about language use, teaching
methods, and curriculum design in the classroom.
2 Student Interactions
The dynamic between students' language
backgrounds, proficiencies, and engagement in the
learning process.
3 Assessment Practices
Evaluating and measuring language skills and
proficiency, including through standardized testing.
Reference:
RICENTO, K. & HORNBERGER, H. (1996). Unpeeling The
Onion: Language Planning and Policy and ELT Professional.
T E S O L Q U A RT E R LY. R e t r i e v e d f r o m
https://www.scribd.com/document/5862440055/Unpeeling-the-
onion-Language-planning-an on April 19, 2024.
