Module Code - Title:
LI6051
-
VARIETIES OF ENGLISH
Year Last Offered:
2024/5
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
This module explores the diversity of the English language today, and is concerned with describing the features, use and status of contemporary varieties of English around the world. Further, as the English language and its varieties are located within histories of expansion, (post-)colonialism, and globalisation, the module investigates these histories and contemporary issues. Hence, students will not only develop descriptive knowledge of sociolinguistic aspects of language, but also an awareness of critical issues of language variation and change, from multiple perspectives.
Syllabus:
Topics include concepts of Varieties and varieties; Varieties of English; and critical discussion around these varieties. Beyond this, students will become familiar with the methods used in variety studies, such as models of categorisation, types of variation across Englishes, current debates in the study of varieties of English, as well as the various theoretical frameworks for analysing varieties of English.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of the module, students should be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of the English language;
- demonstrate knowledge of the various theoretical and analytical models of analysis of varieties of English;
- use skills which enable them to describe and analyse features, use and status of different varieties of English;
- critically engage with issues around varieties of English.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of the module, students should be able to:
- demonstrate an appreciation of the diversity of the English language;
- demonstrate an awareness of critical issues in the field of varieties of English.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module is delivered by guest lecturers and faculty who have particular expertise in language variation, and World Englishes. It can be delivered fully online in the form of webinars and/or face-to-face inputs. Students will have access to innovative, contemporary research as it emerges, and develop a strong research sensibilities and experience. Further, they will develop capacity for critical thinking about real-world language issues that immediately concern them and communities around the world and gain awareness of their own responsibility and impact that their language choices can have on a local and global level.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Brutt-Griffler, J. (2002)
World English: A Study of its Development.
, Multilingual Matters
Crystal, D. (2003)
English as a Global Language.
, Cambridge University Press
Jenkins, J. (2014)
Global Englishes.
, Routledge
Nelson, C.L., Proshina, Z.G. & Davis, D.R. (2019)
The Handbook of World Englishes (2nd Edition).
, Wiley
Pennycook, A. (1994)
The Cultural Politics of English as an International Language.
, Longman
Saraceni, M. (2015)
World Englishes. A Critical Analysis.
, Bloomsbury
Schneider, E. (2013)
English around the World.
, Cambridge University Press
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
MAALINTFA - APPLIED LINGUISTICS (INTERNATIONAL)
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Autumn
Module Leader:
maria.hickey@ul.ie