Explain the methodology you would use for investigating how language is used in different forms of computer-mediated communication (email, texting, MSN, social networking sites etc.)
Question 1b requires a 5 point approach. You have to have some sort of aim, a method of collecting data, a framework to analyse that data, an awareness of extra linguistic variables and issues of ethics and validity, and an idea of what you will find and what it means. There is more detail on this available on the AQA site here (aimed at teachers but useful for students if you know what you're doing).
Remember to follow the 5 point plan as laid out below:
- AIM/ANGLE
- METHOD of DATA COLLECTION
- FRAMEWORK for ANALYSING YOUR DATA
- CONSIDERATION of EXTRA LINGUISTIC VARIABLES/ VALIDITY/ ETHICS
- WHAT YOU EXPECT to FIND
