I want you to listen to -- and read -- the NPR story "Our Language is Evolving, 'Because Internet." After you have read and listened to the content, think about what you learned from the piece, then answer the following questions online.

This week, I want you to listen to -- and read -- the NPR story  "Our Language is Evolving, 'Because Internet."   After you have read and listened to the content, think about what you learned from the piece, then answer the following questions online. 

1. Had you thought about the fact that language is changing due to the technology we use on a day-to-day basis? If so, when did you first recognize this phenomenon? If you hadn't thought about this previously, did the things Gretchen McCulloch say surprise you? Go into some detail in your answer. 

2. Reflect on the way your use of language has changed during your lifetime. If you don't believe your language use has changed, explain how you have avoided the type of phenomenon McCulloch talks about in this interview. 

3. Do you believe -- as McCulloch seems to -- that it is just as important to analyze informal language as to analyze more traditional patterns of communication? Explain your thoughts thoroughly. 

4. McCulloch says she wishes she had been able to devote more time to the "keysmash" trend in her book. Do you -- or others you know -- regularly keysmash to express emotion? Do you find that this sort of communication is easily understood ... or is it important to keysmash only with select audiences?

IMPORTANT: Your response must be at least 400 words. If you meet this word count and demonstrate careful consideration in your answers, you will receive full points. You are welcome to express whatever opinions you like. What I am looking for is evidence that you carefully listened to and read the story and considered the content. If you do not meet the minimum word count and demonstrate full engagement with the material, you will lose points. I do not deduct points for exceeding the minimum word count.