Hi everyone,
Could I just ask, can we use contemporary examples from the American Context, obviously not for the essay topics that ask for the Australian context and identity, but what about for topics relating to swearing or taboo?
For example, could I talk about Trump swearing in a recent tweet or any media release?
Or does every single example have to be Australian?
Thanks a lot guys!
Hello!
The best way to use these examples is when comparing them to usage in Australian English related to similar contexts. So for taboo, while American English has this, Australian English has this, or supports this, or has this idea. Remember, essay topics commonly ask you to write using 'contemporary Australian examples' or they imply it in the question stem through phrasings like 'In Australia today'. Although, if you see that your chosen question doesn't imply this, then I think it's safe to use relevant American English examples (maybe just avoid using them predominantly - Aus. examples are always the best).
For our school, it was highly recommended to stick to Australian examples, although many of those who scored highly got away with using American examples. It might be different for your school, so ask your teacher to confirm this.
Also, just like mtDNA, I often used linguistic examples with reference to the Australian context, even if their origins are in America. For example, an Australian Youtuber using a certain slang term or an Australian instagram account incorporating such and such.