東京大学大学院総合文化研究科
言語情報科学専攻
Language and Information Sciences, University of Tokyo
World Englishes introduces English across different countries via the examination of their historical development and spread, along with comparisons and contrasts of their phonological, lexical and grammatical features. This course explores earlier varieties of English, such as American and British, and newer varieties that have emerged, such as Singapore and Indian English. Although speakers can use their own English varieties in ways that maintain mutual intelligibility with English speakers from other countries, each type of English has its own special characteristics. Additionally, there exists great variation among users who presumably speak the same national dialect of English.
You will focus on language structure in novel ways that call attention to phonological, lexical and grammar features, and apply your English knowledge learned form prior coursework. Topics covered include language change, language status, English as a lingua franca, the concept of the native speaker, and world English classifications such as Kachru’s concentric circles model.
Objectives
You will:
1) Apply and practice your English skills, especially reading and writing.
2) Familiarize yourself with varieties of English and features of those dialects.
3) Use analytical skills through comparison of English varieties.
4) Develop an awareness, respect, and understanding of diversity in language patterns,
dialects across cultures, and the social roles of these dialects.
The weekly schedule will be provided on the first class day.
Each class will consist of a short lecture followed by a reading or video discussed as a class. The class then will break into small groups to discuss other readings or videos. Homework assignments may include: assigned reading; student submission of texts or short videos to the instructor for use in class; and short writing assignments.
The course evaluation is based on: participation in class activities and discussion; reading quizzes; assignments; and a presentation project.
The specific grade breakdown will be provided on the first day of class.
Readings will be assigned throughout the term.
Although this is a linguistics themed class, prior knowledge of linguistics is not required for the course.
The course will be conducted in English, but depending on the composition of the class, there may be supplemental reading assignments in Japanese.
This class is limited to 20 students. If necessary, selections will be made in the first class.
