Specialization in English Language - International English: variation and change (ENG272)

Content

This course provides an introduction to the study of linguistic variation and change, with focus on international varieties of English. The course deals both with regional variation and social variables such as age, gender and social class. It introduces the theoretical and methodological framework of sociolinguistics, which provides a basis both for the study of varieties within the course and for the students’ work on their BA thesis. In addition, it considers English as a global language, including its geographical spread, cultural roles and attitudes towards its use. During the course, the class will study a range of varieties of English, representing the three ‘circles’ of global English: countries with English as a first language (e.g. Australia), as a second language (e.g. India) and as a language of increasing importance (e.g. Norway). We will identify linguistic features typical of particular varieties and learn to recognize speakers of different backgrounds. We will also discuss the ways in which English has influenced or is influenced by other languages as a result of language contact.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

Upon completion of the course, the students will have gained knowledge of

• the roles and uses of English as a first, second and foreign language worldwide

• the concepts of dialect, standard language, language variation and language change

• different regional realisations of English within various linguistic categories, such as pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary

• gender, age and social class as factors influencing speech variation

• the concept of language contact and specifically the effects of contact between English and other languages

Skills

By the end of the course, the students will be able to

• reflect upon central theories, concepts and perspectives within the fields of sociolinguistics and international varieties of English

• analyse and describe linguistic variation in English with regard to regional and social differences

• discuss different attitudes to language and in particular towards English worldwide

• identify possible places of occurrence for specific linguistic features of English on a global scale

General competencies

Upon completion of the course, the students

• will be able to discuss aspects of language variation and change in an informed way

• will have a good understanding of the roles and implications of English as a global language

• will be better able to recognize different varieties of English and identify their main characteristics

• will be able to express themselves correctly and academically both in writing and orally

Required prerequisite knowledge

Students must have a minimum of 50 ECTS in introductory English courses or equivalent in order to begin the specialization.

BA students must have a minimum of 45 ECTS in introductory English courses or equivalent in order to begin the specialization.

Recommended prerequisites

One of the following alternatives:

• ENG100 Introduction to the English Language, ENG105 British and Irish Literature, ENG140 The Sounds of English, ENG165 American Literature and Culture, ENG180 Uses of English with didactics

• ENG100 Introduction to the English Language, ENG140 The Sounds of English, ENG165 American Literature and Culture, ENG180 Uses of English with didactics

• ENG115 An Introduction to Literature in English, ENG145 Introduction to the English language, ENG175 American Literature and Culture

• ENG115 An Introduction to Literature in English, ENG175 American Literature and Culture, ENG195 English Phonetics and Phonology

• ENG115 An Introduction to Literature in English, ENG145 Introduction to the English language, ENG195 English Phonetics and Phonology

• ENG145 Introduction to the English language, ENG175 American Literature and Culture, ENG195 English Phonetics and Phonology

• Other equivalent course combinations

Exam

Coursework requirements

The group research project must be presented in class and must be passed in order to be admitted to the exam. 75 % seminar attendance is required to sit the final exam.

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Course teacher:

Study Adviser:

Study Adviser:

Method of work

Lectures/seminars.

Open for

Open to students accepted into the Bachelor programme (or Specialization) in English Language and Literature at the Department of Cultural Studies and Languages, provided that they have the prerequisite knowledge. Open to exchange students. Other students must apply within the given deadlines.

Course assessment

Literature