According to Gee the difference between Discourses and discourses is as follows:
"Thus, what is important is not language, and surely not grammar, but saying (writing)-doing
valuing-believing combinations. These combinations I call "Discourses," with a capital
"D" ("discourse" with a little "d," to me, means connected stretches of language that make
sense, so "discourse" is part of "Discourse")" (Gee 526)
Discourses, with a capital "D" is your identity kit. It is one of the many characters one plays in their daily lives. I have many personal Discourses and they vary from place to place. During the mornings I am a student. I attend class and struggle to finish my homework. During the evenings I am a daughter. Resently I have become a care giver. After my mother had a stroke and heart attack this year, I'm the one responsible for her finances and getting the things she needs that the nursing home does not provide. I'm the one who has to discuss things with the nursing home when things occur there that shouldn't. I also play the role of the niece. I live with my aunt and I try to help my aunt whenever possible. Then I also play the role of the aunt when it comes to my cousin's kids. I adore them, and spoil them. At night I'm a retail associate. I work at walmart. I put on the happy face and try to be polite to our lovely rude customers in Racine.
Gee defines literacy as the mastery of or fluent control over a secondary Discourse. I agree to an extent. I agree that everything, not just literacy, is a matter of context. The way you say something can change the whole meaning of your words, not just in literature but in life. However I do not agree with the not being able to overcome or change your primary Discourse. I grew up in an abusive home in a lower middle class family but I was able to make my way into college and let go of my past to look to my future.
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