(For students admitted in 2021-22 or before, this course will be counted as Introductory course from List B after completion. Please refer to your syllabus at https://english.hku.hk/Undergraduate/Curriculum/English_Studies.)
This course introduces students to some of the fundamental issues and debates in the study of World Englishes. We survey the development of the English language from its origins in the Anglo-Saxon period to its current status as the pre-eminent global language. Key issues will include the historical emergence of new varieties of English; their structural and sociolinguistic dimensions; and the models we use to classify these new varieties. Through the critical reading of introductory texts and research papers in the field, students will be given the opportunity to study ‘linguistic imperalism’, ‘nativeness’ and ownership, issues of ideology, attitudes and identity, and challenges for pedagogy and planning. Students will be expected to reflect critically on the readings, debate relevant issues, and to demonstrate their knowledge in class tests, short-answer questions and a written essay.
- The evolution of English from its origins to the present day
- The spread and classification of Englishes around the world
- The ecology and evolution of new Englishes
- English as a Lingua Franca (ELF)
- Global varieties of English (BrE, AmE, HKE, AuSE, NZE etc.)
- Familiarise students with varieties of English world-wide and their development and classification in both historical and contemporary eras;
- Lead students to identify and critically reflect on relevant and fundamental issues and debates in World Englishes, including concepts such as ‘linguistic imperialism’ , ‘nativeness’ and ownership, issues of ideology, attitudes and identity, pedagogy and planning; and in so doing:
- Nurture students capable of making informed, intelligent and significant contributions to the ongoing debate surrounding English in its international contexts.
Lectures and tutorials, involving in-class structured exercises and discussion.
In class tests (30%), short answers questions (30%), a written essay (30%) and participation (10%).
Course readings will be made available on the course website.