African American Vernacular English
The term African American Vernacular English (AAVE) refers to a variety of English spoken in some African American communities. Like other dialects of English, AAVE contains unique rules, patterns, and vocabulary. It is referred to as a "vernacular," as its use is almost exclusively limited to spoken English, and it is not often seen in written form.
One oft-cited example of its distinction from other varieties of North American English is the use of the verb "to be." The forms of this infinitive are omitted from phrases containing a gerund; "they are dancing" may become "they dancing." Yet the insertion of "be" into a phrase such as "they be dancing" is indicative of a habitual action.
However, AAVE is much more than just different syntax and vocabulary, and it is an important topic in sociolinguistic research. Though it is often connected to Ebonics and the highly politicized uproar in 1996 over the Oakland, California School Board resolution, most linguists maintain that Ebonics and AAVE are not completely synonymous.
Information for this entry came from the Concise Encyclopedia of Sociolinguistics (Cabell Reference P40 .C564 2001) and the truly fascinating Companion to Southern Literature (Cabell Reference PS261 .C55 2002).
Other works of interest include:
Campbell, Kermit Ernest. Gettin' our groove on : rhetoric, language, and literacy for the hip hop generation. Cabell Library PE3102.N42 C36 2005
Lanehart, Sonja L., ed. Sociocultural and historical contexts of African American English. Cabell Library PE3102.N44 S63 2001
Brown, Fahamisha Patricia. Performing the word : African American poetry as vernacular culture. Cabell Library PS310.N4 B76 1999
Rickford, John R. African American vernacular English : features, evolution, educational implications. Cabell Library PE3102.N42 R53 1999
--Renée Bosman, Government Information Librarian - Research and Reference Services