English Around the World Lesson
“English Around the World” explores the fascinating diversity and spread of the English language across the globe. As a lingua franca, English serves as a bridge connecting different cultures, economies, and communities. This course section will delve into how English has evolved into various forms and is used in different social, political, and cultural contexts. We’ll examine the influences on English, the emergence of distinct varieties, and how these factors contribute to global communication and identity.
Vocabulary
- travel bug (idiom)- strong desire to travel
- to be bitten by the travel bug (idiom)- kind of a cute way to say when someone begins to want to travel. After the “bug” bites you, you will really want to travel.
- to wander– to go from one place to another without any definite plans
- to be in the comfort of (one’s) own home– to be at home, in a familiar or comfortable place
- to explore– to look around and find out new things
- exotic (adjective)- strange, mysterious, exciting, unknown
- mystery– something unknown, something that needs to be found out
- to flock– large amounts of people go to the same place at the same time
- vast (adjective)- very large
- perspective– view, way of seeing things
- accomplishment– feeling like you have done something important and good
Reading
Have you ever had the desire to wander the world and see what was out there? While some people prefer to stay in the comfort of their own home, others have been bitten by the travel bug and can’t wait to explore the world. Exotic places call to them. “Come visit me and I will show you my mysteries,” they say.
Every year millions of people pack their suitcases or put on backpacks and flock to visit the seven continents of the world. They wander through the castles and museums of Europe, and the cities and natural wonders of North and South America. Some visit the vast exotic cultures of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The great outback of Australia is a wonderland for those who go there. And a few lucky people even make to the most mysterious continent on the earth- Antarctica.
Why do people want to explore the world? It gives them a better perspective about the earth and the people living on it. It opens their minds, it gives them a feeling of accomplishment, and it makes them feel alive. So save some money, get your passport ready, and see the world. It will change your life forever.
Questions and Answers – Choose True or False.
Prepare to test your knowledge with an 8-question quiz designed to challenge and deepen your understanding of the global spread of English. Questions will cover topics such as regional dialects, historical influences, and the impact of English in non-native regions. This quiz will help reinforce what you’ve learned and provide insights into the dynamic nature of English worldwide.
Check your answers at the bottom of the page by scrolling below the quiz (after you are done!)
1. To be bitten by the travel bug means you like to stay home.
True
False
2. People bitten by the travel bug like to visit new places.
True
False
3. The great outback is in Europe.
True
False
4. Antarctica is in Africa.
True
False
5. Asia is vast.
True
False
6. Traveling opens your mind.
True
False
7. Traveling makes you feel alive.
True
False
8. Traveling helps you see things in a new way.
True
False
Answer Key:
- F
- T
- F
- F
- T
- T
- T
- T
Frequently Asked Questions about English Around the World
There are numerous varieties of English spoken worldwide. Major types include American, British, Australian, Canadian, and Indian English, but there are also many localized versions like Singaporean or South African English, each with its unique characteristics.
An accent refers to the way words are pronounced, while a dialect involves differences not only in pronunciation but also in grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. Dialects can sometimes be so distinct that they affect mutual understanding between speakers of the same language.
English is considered a global language due to its widespread use and influence. It is the dominant or official language in 67 countries and is extensively used as a second language in many more. English is pivotal in international business, science, technology, aviation, diplomacy, and popular culture.
As English has spread globally, it has adapted to local languages and cultures, leading to new vocabulary, grammatical structures, and accents. These changes reflect the linguistic diversity and cultural nuances of regions where English is spoken.
Yes, understanding different English varieties can greatly benefit learners by enhancing their communicative competence and cultural awareness. It helps in recognizing and interpreting the nuances that come with different English usages, which is crucial in a globalized world.