Yo! Do u Speak Slang?

This is a link to the New York Times article about President Obama's use of English.  Do you think President Obama is more "relatable" or likable because he uses slang?

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/09/opinion/sunday/obama-and-the-racial-politics-of-american-english.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

Do you use slang? How do you use it?  What do you think about using slang?

STUDENTS RESPOND:

“I think that Obama could use slang if he is trying to act tough and also the slang can be faster. I think that some poeple say klk mani or Mexican slang like guay.” (Miguel)

“I think we can use this language when we leave school.” (Ruben)

“Is a way to tell people your nationality. It’s also to communicate in your own way.”  (Ralia)

“Yes, but only when I am talking with my friends. I use was gud and whats up. I think slang is a way to express yourself without trying to be something you’re not.” (Jose)

“¿Que paso manin? ¿klk como tu estas? ¿que tu haces manin? Yo creo que no es muy bueno poque muchas gentes se confunden.” (Darlin)

“Sometimes I use strong slang in front of my friends but if I go for an interview then I’m formal and proper. I feel good about what I say and how I say it.  You need to think about who you talk it to because it could be offensive to some people and a compliment to others. You just have to make the right choice.” (Alton)

“Yea I do use slang yo, I have a ghetto personality. Slang for me is simplifying words and also changing them bro. Example: klk mani or wut the wut nut, whats crackin, sup and yo. Slang is awesome son, formal specking is wack (no offense bro).” (Ronald)

“I use slang because its easy and faster to talk, because it takes kinda long when what to talk formal but I know how to use it. When I'm talking to adults I talk formal and but when I'm taking to my friend i use slang. I think if you know how to use it its kinda okay but if don't know how to use it's better to not use it. You could get in trouble for it, in my opinion any body could use it but just know how to use and at what time to use it.” (Adelby)

“Well I think that maybe using this makes me feel more comfortable. This is kind of better to use because it's a shorter version instead of using the long term that takes more time.” (Audrey)

“I use it in the a sentence when it make sense. I use it when I want to use a short term. What it is about slang is that it easy to talk using it.” (Julio)