This module focuses on the global spread of the English Language as an aspect of historical and contemporary cultural and commercial events. Students will get the opportunity to compare varieties of English both in Britain and other English speaking countries, examining the features that distinguish them from each other. These varieties will include British, American and Australian English in addition to other colonial and pidgin and creole varieties. The descriptive focus of the module will also give students the opportunity to apply the knowledge they have gained in other modules, in particular: language analysis, phonetics and phonology, morphosyntax and sociolinguistics.
Total Contact Hours: 20
Independent Study Hours: 130
Total Study Hours: 150
Main assessment methods
• Project/Assignment (1,800-2,000 words) – 80%
• Group Presentation (15 minutes) – 20%
Reassessment methods
• Reassessment Instrument: 100% Coursework
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages: https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Describe the relationship between the spread of English and global events;
2 Understand language issues in multilingual and multicultural societies, including issues pertaining to language planning and policy;
3 Recognise the influence of other languages on English, drawing upon theories of language genesis, acquisition, sociolinguistics and discourse;
4 Identify differences between British English, American English and other varieties of Englishes around the world;
5 Analyse the influence of other languages on English;
6 Compare varieties of English across the world from a range of perspectives: historical, morphosyntactical and discoursal.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate their skills in critical reflection and analytical discussion of their own writing and the writing of others;
2 Demonstrate their ability to work cooperatively with others through the preparation of a group oral presentation;
3 Demonstrate their ability to undertake independent enquiry;
4 Use IT skills to present information effectively;
5 Evaluate information obtained from seminar discussion and oral presentations of peers;
6 Demonstrate the ability to research, plan and write an academic essay.
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