Code-Mixing: A Dilapidating Trend in the Punjab Textbook

Abstract

Code-mixing is one of the dimensions for the increased spread of the English language around the globe.
In Pakistan, it is now a common trend among masses not only in their spoken discourse but also in their
written genre. Education is one of the most influenced field of the English language. The present paper
investigates the occurrence of code-mixing in textbooks published by the Punjab Textbook Board (PTB). A
vigilant analysis of English vocabulary in General Science Book (Grade 9-10), published by The Punjab
Textbook Board (PTB) and approved by the Punjab Curriculum Authority according to National
Curriculum 2006 and National Textbook and Learning Materials Policy 2007, has been conducted. A
robust examination of the textbook shows that a good amount of code-mixed words have been used in
textbooks even when the Urdu language is capable enough to present its Urdu-version equivalents. The
current study has raised many questions, i.e., why Urdu words are so frequently replaced by English lexis
even though Urdu has equivalent words? Is code-mixing in textbooks making Urdu language more flexible,
or it is progressively declining individuality of Urdu language? The current study suggests that textbooks
are the most influential tool for learning and teaching in academic institutions. Textbooks developers
should aim to maintain the individuality of the Urdu language by avoiding unnecessary replacement of
English lexes.