A measure of code elaboration for written language

A multidemensional measure of code elaboration for written sentences is proposed and applied in a research setting. The rationale for such a measure is presented from Bernstein's conception of code elaboration and from the various techniques or grammatical viewpoints which serve as a basis for a large body of research on code elaboration. The methodological grounds for construing written sentences as sufficiently similar to spoken language for the construction of a meaningful index of elaboration for written sentences are developed. The approach involves an adaptation of immediate constituent analysis. A description of the index formation for aspects of elaboration is provided, and the interrelationship among the indicators is presented. The measurement strategy developed may be applicable in the reanalysis and utilization of all forms of written sentences from sociological research whenever the methodological stipulations outlined can be met.