Englisches Seminar
Universität Münster

SPRACHWISSENSCHAFTLICHES PROSEMINAR:
VARIETIES OF STANDARD ENGLISH AROUND THE WORLD

SS 04
Mo 11-13, Room H19
Oliver M. Traxel


It is common knowledge that English as a first language is spoken not only on the British Isles or the United States, but also in a large number of other places all over the world. However, there are a lot of linguistic features that distinguish the English spoken there from other varieties of standard English. This seminar looks at the differences between these varieties and examines these with particular regard to pronunciation and vocabulary.

The individual sessions of this seminar are devoted to one variety each and will cover the English language in Wales, Scotland, Ireland, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and the Caribbean. Second language varieties in Asia and Africa as well as English-based pidgins and creoles are also discussed. Sound- and video-clips will be used to illustrate some characteristics. All participants are expected to give short presentations. A list of topics and secondary literature will be made available on the notice board in due course. Please write your names in the respective spaces before 1 April 2004. You will only be guaranteed participation if you have registered by that date.

The set text is P. Trudgill and J. Hannah, International English, 4th ed. (London: Arnold, 2002) (ISBN 0-340-80834-9). This book is available at Poertgen-Herder in the Salzstr., or at amazon.de. If possible, you should also get hold of T. McArthur Oxford Guide to World English (Oxford: University Press, 2002) (ISBN 0-19-860771-7), as it contains valuable background information.

The main assessment factor for the successful passing of this seminar will be a piece of coursework, which has to be handed in by 8 October. Relevant questions will be discussed in the final session on 26 July. Regular participation in all sessions is strongly advised. It is essential that candidates will have visited the following links to get a further impression of the course and to broaden their understanding of the subject matter:

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