Final answer:
It is true that linguistic stratification occurs between dialects, with some being deemed prestige dialects, such as Standard English in contrast to Black English Vernacular. This stratification results in marginalization of nonstandard dialects, which are often erroneously perceived as lacking rules or prestige. However, all dialects have structured linguistic systems, and speakers sometimes engage in code-switching for social mobility while others strive to preserve and celebrate their home languages.
Step-by-step explanation:
Linguistic stratification indeed occurs between dialects when one is considered a prestige dialect, as in the case with High German and Low German, or with Standard English and Black English Vernacular. This is true. Dialects such as Standard American English and African American Vernacular English (AAVE) have their own grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation particulars. In various societies, including English-speaking ones, there exists a social stratification where one dialect is deemed more 'correct' or 'prestigious' than others, often marginalizing those who use non-prestige dialects.
While standard dialects follow specific rules and are used in formal situations, nonstandard dialects are perceived to lack such standardization and to have less social prestige. For example, many English speakers in the United States consider Standard American English, which is used by newscasters and in educational contexts, to be the default 'correct' form of English to be used in schools and official communications. People who speak nonstandard dialects, including AAVE, may face stigmatization in formal settings despite these dialects being highly structured linguistic systems with their own regularities and innovations.
Code-switching between standard and nonstandard forms often becomes a necessity for those seeking social mobility. Consequently, speakers of nonstandard vernaculars and dialects may choose to adopt standard linguistic forms in public discourse, or they may maintain and celebrate their primary vernaculars, recognizing the inherent value and 'genius' of their home languages.