English and drama

English in the United States

Module code: Q1087A
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Seminar, Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Coursework

This module, designed for both English Language and American Studies students, surveys the English language of the United States from the colonial period onward and examines the linguistic, historical and social forces that have brought the US to its current linguistic state. We consider how a nation of such size and diverse history has managed without an explicit language policy, but nevertheless ended up with a de facto standard language – one that differs more from current British English than the official Englishes of other former colonies. We’ll examine the linguistic variety within the US, including consideration of regional (e.g. north/south, Appalachian, Californian, etc.) and ethnic varieties (e.g. African-American and Chicano Englishes) – asking how they’ve evolved and what social functions they perform. We’ll also consider whether there are particularly American styles of communication. You have a broad range of choice in the topics they choose to explore for portfolio writings and will be guided in writing short, well-researched articles in a journalistic style.

Module learning outcomes

• Describe major distinguishing characteristics of American English and of the linguistic landscape of the US.
• Explain major forces that have determined the directions of linguistic change in USA.
• Support claims about language in the United States using suitable research tools and clear argumentation