U211: Exploring the English Language
Level 2
60 points
Start date: February 2008
Compulsory module for Diploma in English Language Studies
Compulsory module for BA (Hons) English Language and Literature
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Recommended texts and course books:
From the course description:
The English language has always been a diverse and dynamic topic. This interdisciplinary course will be relevant to anyone interested in a broad range of questions about English, whether for professional or personal reasons. What is ‘good’ and ‘bad’ English? Is the influence of English worldwide cause for celebration or concern? What are the origins of the language and how has it changed in response to social, cultural and technological changes? How do children and adults learn English? How can English be analysed? You will investigate these and many other issues through a combination of computer-based resources and course books.
By studying this course, you’ll gain:
an understanding of the history of English and its development as a global language
a critical appreciation of contemporary uses of English in a range of social contexts
conceptual frameworks for the study of linguistic phenomena in a range of social contexts
opportunities to analyse spoken, written and multi-modal English
a perspective on your own English language experiences, including developing aspects of your own communication skills.
For the core study for the course, you’ll be using a combination of two interactive study-guide DVD-ROMs (PC necessary) and four course books. The DVD-Roms contain exercises designed to develop your knowledge and understanding of key terms and concepts in language description and investigation, as well as illustrations and discussions of the diversity of English language practices across the globe.
The four course books are:
Changing English (edited by D. Graddol, D.Leith, J. Swann, M. Rhys & J. Gillen)
Using English (edited by J. Maybin, N. Mercer & A. Hewings)
Learning English (edited by N. Mercer, J.Swann & B. Mayor)
Redesigning English (edited by S. Goodman, D. Graddol & T. Lillis)
You’ll also receive three DVD-Videos containing related audio-visual material to view on your television.
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U211 replaced U210 The English Language: past present and future in 2007.
