Gee and Discourse

    In Literacy, Discourse, and Linguistics, James Paul Gee discusses, among other things, the key differences between language, grammar, discourse, and Discourse. Gee also makes mention of "tests" imposed upon users of a certain language or literacy. These tests are based on their knowledge and usage of what is considered to be the "dominant Discourse" in a community or society. The primary outcome of these tests is that one can see whether this person is "native" to this Discourse or not.
    In other words, you can see whether a person has learned the proper usage of a language that is considered the primary language of an area. An example that Gee gives is the focus on superficial features of a language that only one who is "native" to it would grasp. His example is "middle-class mainstream" Discourse, which presupposes that is in opposition with those of lower socioeconomic standing. These "non-native users" don't have as firm of a grasp on the proper use of the language and can thus be pointed out and denied access to greater opportunities (such as a better job). I think this is an example we can all relate to as, for better or for worse, we are taught from a young age to articulate our thoughts in such a way as to imply that we are well educated and intelligent.