Undergraduate - UnitATS3778 - English as an international language: World Englishes

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered, or view unit timetables.

Notes

Synopsis

The world-wide spread of English and the process of globalization have led to the development of new varieties of English, which are collectively called World Englishes. Communication in the 21st century takes place between speakers of these new varieties of English. This unit familiarises students with the diversity of the English language spoken in the world such as American English, British English, Australian English, Singaporean English, Indian English, Hong Kong English etc. It also encourages students to examine the implications of understanding World Englishes for international/intercultural communication.

Outcomes

At the completion of this unit it is expected that students, as multilingual speakers, will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a high level familiarity with and understanding of different Englishes in the world (World Englishes);
2. Apply their understanding of World Englishes to international and/or intercultural communication contexts;
3. Show cultural and linguistic empathy and sensitivity towards speakers from different cultural backgrounds;
4. Communicate effectively across different cultures and Englishes.

Assessment

Written work: 60%
Test: 20%
Oral presentation: 10%
Class participation 10%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Zhichang Xu

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour workshop) per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

English as an international language