Knowledge and understanding of the main issues related to the status of English varieties around the world and to the debate on English as an international lingua franca. Ability to analyse the major English varieties worldwide and their use in different communicative contexts. Ability to express informed opinions on the recent debate concerning global varieties of English and the use of English as an international lingua franca, using the specific terminology, tools, and concepts acquired during the course.
Course Prerequisites
Students should have a C1 CEFR level competence in English. Erasmus students should also have a B2CEFR level in Italian. To attend the course students are expected to have a BA in Modern Languages or similar and have passed three English language courses in their undergraduate career.
Teaching Methods
The course comprises lectures. During lectures, the main contents of the course will be presented and students will be encouraged to take part in class discussion. Guest lectures from invited scholars will also be organised.
Assessment Methods
Students will be assessed through an oral exam on their knowledge of the contents of the course (70% of the total score) and on their ability to communicate in English (30% of the total score).
Texts
A list of readings will be provided during the course and will be made available on Kiro.
Contents
Starting from the recent debate on the role of English as an international language, the course examines the historical and cultural reasons that have led to the spread of English around the world and to the emergence of the concept of World Englishes to describe new developing varieties of the English language. The course will analyse several standard and non-standard varieties of English, highlighting their specific features. It will also discuss the role of English as a lingua franca in international communication and various aspects related to intercultural communication.
Course Language
English
More information
Besides the course ppt presentations, the following materials will be available on the Kiro platform: texts and handouts analysed in class; additional articles and references; useful additional texts and links to audiovisual material.
