Heritage language performance and identity manifestation of 1.5 generation Chinese Australians: age of migration perspective

This study examines the heritage language performance and identity manifestation of Chinese 1.5-generation adolescents and young adults who migrated to Australia at various ages. Using qualitative ethnographic methods, the research engaged with 25 Chinese 1.5-generation individuals who migrated at ages 4–13, along with 18 of their parents. Data were collected through family questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, field observations, and language material samples. The findings reveal that language loss, attrition, and partial insufficiency are common outcomes for the heritage language in this group, with migration age significantly influencing patterns of Chinese language fluency and literacy as well as the multifaceted-ness of identity perceptions. This paper highlights the complex challenges of heritage language maintenance relevant to various migration ages and advocates for tailored support to address the unique linguistic trajectories of each age-of-migration group in predominantly English-speaking countries.