An Overview of the Jamaican Language

When asking about the Jamaican Language, many persons are referring to Jamaican Patios, an English-lexified creole language spoken by the majority of Jamaicans locally or internationally. However, Jamaican Patois is not to be confused with Jamaican Standard English as there are several features which differentiate Jamaican Patois from Jamaican Standard English. 

Jamaican Patois is widely spoken in Jamaica and as such, over ninety percent of the population speaks Jamaican Patois though it is not the official language. On the contrary, Jamaican Standard English is the official language of Jamaica; nevertheless Standard Jamaican English is not spoken as widely as Jamaican Creole. In addition, Standard Jamaican English has written and a spoken form, while Jamaican Patois is mostly spoken. Several persons have made claim that Jamaican Patois does not have a standardized writing system.

While there is no doubt that a measure of fluency in Standard English continues to be highly desirable, Jamaican Creole, too, can contribute to one's international competitiveness. Hence I believe that Jamaican Creole should be given a chance in the classroom!!