ABSTRACT

Routledge Introductions to Applied Linguistics is a series of introductory level textbooks covering the core topics in Applied Linguistics, primarily designed for those beginning postgraduate studies, or taking an introductory MA course as well as advanced undergraduates. Titles in the series are also ideal for language professionals returning to academic study.

The books take an innovative 'practice to theory' approach, with a 'back-to-front' structure. This leads the reader from real-world problems and issues, through a discussion of intervention and how to engage with these concerns, before finally relating these practical issues to theoretical foundations. Additional features include tasks with commentaries, a glossary of key terms, and an annotated further reading section.

In this book Philip Seargeant surveys varieties of English existing within the world today, and the debates and controversies surrounding its present forms, functions and status in diverse world contexts. It examines how English has evolved to become a ‘global language’ and looks at the political and cultural history that has influenced this evolution.

Beginning with a discussion of real-life challenges relating to world Englishes that are faced by language professionals – particularly in the contexts of language education and language planning – the book explores and illustrates the ways in which the actual use and management of English, as well as the beliefs and ideologies associated with it, play an increasingly important role in contemporary globalized society.

chapter |8 pages

General introduction

part I|112 pages

English in the world today

section Section A|66 pages

Problems and contexts

chapter 2|31 pages

English in the world today

chapter 3|18 pages

The context and history of World Englishes

section Section B|44 pages

Interventions

chapter 6|10 pages

The global language paradigm

chapter 7|16 pages

Codification and legitimation

chapter 8|14 pages

Policies and cultural practices

part II|59 pages

World Englishes as an academic discipline

section Section C|57 pages

Theory

chapter 10|12 pages

World Englishes as an academic discipline

chapter 11|9 pages

English as an object of study

chapter 12|13 pages

Models and theoretical frameworks

chapter 13|14 pages

Naming and describing the English language

chapter 14|3 pages

Conclusion: The state of the discipline