The document discusses several topics related to the geography of language: - Standard languages are accepted community norms for syntax, vocabulary and pronunciation, decided by those in power. Dialects vary in these areas and denote social class or region. - Pidgins are simplified languages used informally, with limited vocabulary and structure. Creoles evolve when a pidgin becomes a first language. - Lingua francas are third languages used between groups who would not otherwise understand each other, like Swahili in East Africa. - Official languages and multilingualism are discussed in relation to countries like Switzerland, Mexico, Nigeria. - Language families, subfamilies and groups are classified based on common ancestry over thousands of years