English Language Lecture Notes Review

Flashcards about English as a Global Language, future directions of English, and geographical & socio-cultural features of Anglophone countries

What is a global language?

A global language is adopted by other countries around the world, which grant it a special role within their communities, even in the absence of many (or any) native speakers.

What are the two main ways a language can become global?

Official/Second Language and Priority Foreign Language

In how many countries does English hold official status?

Over seventy countries

Roughly what fraction of the world's population is fluent or competent in English?

Approximately one quarter of the world's population (estimated at 1.5 billion in the early 2000s)

What makes a language global?

The power of its speakers, especially their political and military power.

What economic factors contributed to English globalization in the 19th century?

Britain became the world's leading industrial and trading country, and the United States had the largest population and the most productive economy.

What two primary factors explain English's current global pre-eminence?

The expansion of British colonial power and the emergence of the United States as the leading economic power.

What are the three circles in the Three Circles Model of English spread?

Inner Circle, Outer Circle, and Expanding Circle

What defines the Inner Circle in the Three Circles Model?

Countries where English is the primary/native language (e.g., USA, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand).

What defines the Outer Circle in the Three Circles Model?

Countries where English is a second language and has official status, often linked to colonization (e.g., Singapore, India, Malawi).

What defines the Expanding Circle in the Three Circles Model?

Nations that recognize the importance of English as an international language, even if they have no history of colonization (e.g., China, Japan, several European countries).

In what fields does English remain the global lingua franca?

Business, academia, diplomacy, media, social media, and technology

What are some factors that English language teaching must consider for future developments?

Demographic Reduction and Technological and Consumer Transformation

What factors contribute to lower levels of demand and motivation for English in Italy?

General poor knowledge of foreign languages, a large number of dialects, traditional emphasis on national language learning in schools, and dubbing of foreign films and television.

What factors could go against the general trend for English's global dominance?

Significant shifts in international power and the rise of new English varieties.

What are the key points of the 'English Plus Resolution'?

Recognizes English as the 'primary language' while valuing other languages as 'linguistic resources to be conserved and developed'.

What are some examples of the Inner Circle's 'New Englishes'?

Australian, New Zealand, Canadian, South African, Caribbean English; Irish, Scots, Welsh; varieties within the US.

What opportunities does AI offer for adaptive learning?

Conversational AI, adaptive learning pathways, and language practice.

What are the types of AI in Education?

Learner-facing, teacher-facing, and system-facing.

Define 'Speaking' use in ELT.

Pronunciation, speech recognition, adaptive learning, automatic speech analysis, voice assistance.

Define 'Writing' use in ELT.

Vocabulary, grammar, feedback via checkers, improving self-efficacy.

Define 'Reading Skills' use in ELT.

Better vocabulary and comprehension through dynamic, engaging reading environments with AI characters and navigation.

Define 'Pedagogy' use in ELT.

Integrates conventional methods with personalized learning, adapting to learners' preferences.

Define 'Self-learning' use in ELT.

Empowers learners in goal setting and autonomy, fostering active thinking.

What is Research Bias as it pertains to AI in ELT?

Literature often focuses on benefits due to commercial interests.

What are examples of Technology Breakdowns as it pertains to AI in ELT?

Technical malfunctions, poor connectivity.

What are Limited Capabilities as it pertains to AI in ELT?

Chatbots lacking natural interactions, leading to disinterest.

What are Fears as it pertains to AI in ELT?

Lack of clarity on data storage/sharing, uncertainty about AI operation, fear of losing natural learning environments and emotions.

What is Standardizing Languages and Ideologies as it pertains to AI in ELT?

AI programming may reinforce standard language use, disregarding nuances and historical/political language boundaries, potentially perpetuating ideologies.

What are the parts of the United Kingdom?

England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

What are Crown Dependencies?

Islands like the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

What are British Overseas Territories?

Self-governing territories spread across the globe.

What is the structure of the UK Parliament?

Bicameral, consisting of the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

What is the role of the monarchy in the UK?

The monarch (currently King Charles III) 'reigns but does not rule'.

What is the political framework of Ireland?

Parliamentary democracy, EU member.

What happened in 1922 to Ireland?

Irish independence

What was the Good Friday Agreement?

Peace agreement leading to power-sharing government in Northern Ireland.

What is the composition of the USA?

Federal republic of 50 states, a federal district (Washington D.C.), and other territories.

What are the three branches of the US federal government?

Legislative, Executive, and Judicial

What is the official language of the USA?

No official language at the federal level.

What are the roots of American English?

Rooted in early 17th-century English settlement