David Crystal - Which English?

Summary

The video highlights the diversity of English varieties worldwide, explaining that English is not a single, uniform language but a collection of different dialects, such as British, American, and Australian English. The speaker emphasizes the challenges this poses for language learners and teachers, particularly when learners encounter different usages of English. It stresses the importance of teaching learners about these variations and helping them understand why they exist, so they can navigate global English with greater awareness and flexibility.

Takeaways

• 😀 English is not a single variety, but a conglomeration of different varieties and dialects.
• 😀 There are multiple varieties of English, including British, American, Australian, and more.
• 😀 Different varieties of English have unique vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and discourse strategies.
• 😀 One of the main challenges for language learners is deciding which variety of English to teach or learn.
• 😀 It's important to recognize that teaching one variety of English may conflict with other regional usages.
• 😀 Awareness of different English varieties helps learners understand the broader landscape of the language.
• 😀 Credibility in the classroom is supported by teaching students about English's global variations.
• 😀 The distinction between British and American English has become more complicated with the rise of other regional varieties.
• 😀 New regional English forms like Australian, New Zealand, and South African English further complicate language teaching.
• 😀 Teachers should raise students' awareness of these variations and explain why they exist, even if they can't teach all of them.

Q & A

Why is it important for English learners to know about the different varieties of English around the world?

It's important because English is not a single, uniform language. There are various dialects and regional varieties, such as British English, American English, and Australian English. Knowing these differences helps learners navigate the complexities of the language and understand regional vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and discourse strategies.

What are the main challenges language learners face when learning English from a particular variety?

A major challenge is that learners may be exposed to multiple English varieties, which can cause confusion when they encounter variations in vocabulary, grammar, or usage. For example, a learner may be taught one variety of English but later hear a different usage from a native speaker, leading to misunderstandings or doubts.

How does teaching a single variety of English create complications for learners?

Teaching only one variety of English can cause learners to struggle when they encounter other regional usages. They may feel confused or lose credibility if they are taught to avoid certain expressions that are actually common in other English-speaking countries.

What is the impact of a learner hearing different English usages from native speakers?

When a learner hears a different usage from a native speaker, it can challenge the learning they have received, especially if they were taught a specific variety of English. This can lead to confusion or hesitation, as the learner may feel uncertain about which form of English is 'correct.'

How can awareness of different English varieties benefit a learner?

Awareness of different English varieties allows learners to better understand and adapt to the global nature of the language. They will be more prepared to handle diverse forms of English, even if they focus on learning just one variety as their primary mode of communication.

Why has the teaching of English become more complex in recent years?

In recent years, the traditional divide between British English and American English has been complicated by the rise of other regional English varieties, such as Australian English, New Zealand English, and South African English. This has made teaching more complex as educators need to address these variations.

What are some of the regional varieties of English mentioned in the transcript?

The transcript mentions Australian English, New Zealand English, and South African English, in addition to British and American English.

What is the most important thing that a teacher should do regarding regional English varieties?

At a minimum, a teacher should inform students about the existence of different regional varieties, explain why these variations occur, and provide a general understanding of the global nature of the English language. This helps students feel more confident in their language learning.

Why might a teacher's credibility be affected by not addressing different English varieties?

A teacher's credibility might be affected if they fail to acknowledge that different forms of English exist, especially if students encounter native speakers using alternative expressions. This could lead to a loss of trust, as students might question the accuracy of what they are being taught.

What is the key takeaway for English learners in terms of global English usage?

The key takeaway is that English learners should understand that English is a global language with many varieties. While it's important to focus on one primary form of English, learners should also be aware of alternative ways of expression to avoid confusion and improve their overall communication skills.