Course aims:

To account, from a sociolinguistic and cultural perspective, for the role and impact of the English language in a globalized world;
To develop analytic skills for distinguishing some of the linguistic features of varieties of English around the world;
To develop critical understanding of the different social-cultural contexts of the English language worldwide.

Course Entry Requirements:

-

Course contents:

English as a world language: The historical context and the cultural legacy; Geographic/regional varieties of English (American English, Canadian English, Australian English, South African English); Social class varieties of English; Language and ethnic groups; English in the New World; The linguistic character of new Englishes; Contrasting attitudes to English; English and education; English and international relations

Teaching methods:

Discussion, case studies, collaborative learning

Learning outcomes:

To understand, through critical evaluation, the causes, consequences and effects of English becoming a world language; To apply sociolinguistic and cultural concepts and principles to identifying and evaluating varieties of English around the world.

Learning outcomes verification and assessment criteria:

Continuous assessment (50%); final written assignment with oral defense (50%)

Recommended reading:

Crystal, David, English as a Global Language, Cambridge University Press, 2003,
Galloway, Nicola, Introducing Global Englishes, Routledge, New York, 2015,
Seargeant, Philip & Joan Swann (eds.), English in the World: History, Diversity, Change, Routledge, Abingdon, 2012,