What is Standard American English or Standard Academic English

Diverse linguistic practices allow students to accept their linguistic selves, improve their academic selves, and understand when and how to speak or write for effective communication and self-expression. This includes navigating differences between spoken and written word and creative and formal writing. While this may seem restrictive, students often engage with exploring rules and standards. This chapter explores connections and practical activities to promote student agency through the use and restriction of diverse linguistics. This chapter reflects on theoretical, pedagogical sources, and the author's firsthand techniques reflecting on the theoretical and practical implications of diverse linguistic inclusion. Teaching linguistic diversity enhances student agency. An approach that incorporates the idea of code-switching and increasing a student's awareness of language within social contexts will prepare students to become high-performing academics, members of the workforce, and global community citizens.