ENG 295, 296 - The English Language

1 course unit

Today, English is the international language of commerce, government, science, and journalism, but do all English users speak and write the same language? Where and when did English begin? How has our language changed and why is it still changing? In order to answer these questions (and more), this course provides an overview of the field of English linguistics from a sociolinguistic perspective, beginning with foundational readings in formal linguistics and the history of the English language as preparation for an applied approach to studying language in context and action. While the study of language for language’s sake is interesting, language does not exist by itself and for itself, but rather as a social tool for human communication. Therefore, topics include the relationship between language and culture, identity, gender, race, socioeconomic status, nationalism, and ideologies. Particular attention will be paid to English language use in U.S. society and schools for both native and nonnative speakers of English.

Meets the English language requirement for teacher certification in English.
Meets the English language requirement for teacher certification in English.
Meets general academic requirement W when offered as 296.