English Language - Past and Present (Upper-Intermediate Level)
Alison
100% Online
Certificate
2-3 Hours
Course Overview
An incredibly engaging course that answers the question every English learner asks: 'Why is this language so weird?' By explaining the historical trauma the language endured, the bizarre spelling rules suddenly make perfect sense. It’s an essential, entertaining history lesson for any language nerd.
Understand the history and evolution of the English language.
Language is a living organism, constantly evolving, borrowing, and fighting for dominance. 'English Language - Past and Present' is a fascinating sociolinguistic journey tracing how a minor Germanic dialect evolved into the world's most dominant global lingua franca. This upper-intermediate course explores the fascinating etymology of the English vocabulary, showing how history—from the Viking invasions to the Norman Conquest of 1066—radically altered the language. You will learn why English spelling is so famously chaotic (delving into the Great Vowel Shift) and discover how Latin and French infused English with its massive, nuanced vocabulary. Furthermore, the course examines the present and future of the language, analyzing the rise of 'Global English,' the diversification of regional dialects, and the impact of the internet and texting on modern syntax.
- •Self-paced learning, anytime and anywhere.
- •Accessible on any device (Desktop, Tablet, Mobile).
- •Interactive content designed for maximum retention.
Who Should Enrol?
Geared towards upper-intermediate and advanced English speakers (B2-C1), both native and non-native, who possess a strong curiosity about linguistics, history, and the etymology of words.
English Language Requirements
A basic proficiency in reading and understanding English is recommended to fully benefit from the material.
Upon successful completion of this program, you will be able to:
- ✓Trace the historical evolution of English from Old English through Middle English to Modern English.
- ✓Understand the historical events (e.g., the Norman Conquest) that shaped English vocabulary and grammar.
- ✓Explain the historical reasons behind the deep inconsistencies in modern English spelling and pronunciation.
- ✓Analyze the ongoing globalization of English and the emergence of distinct, legitimate regional variations.
- ✓Evaluate how modern technology and digital communication are currently altering the English language.
Provides a brilliant theoretical background for ESL teachers, linguists, writers, and historians. It offers the historical context needed to explain *why* English works the way it does, rather than just *how*.
Why We Recommend This Course
"An incredibly engaging course that answers the question every English learner asks: 'Why is this language so weird?' By explaining the historical trauma the language endured, the bizarre spelling rules suddenly make perfect sense. It’s an essential, entertaining history lesson for any language nerd."
Alison
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Alison is one of the world's largest free learning platforms for education and skills training, empowering millions of learners worldwide.
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