120120 SE English in Europe (2007W)

In this seminar, we will consider the increasing role and actual use of English in Europe and the ways Europeans of different first languages use English to talk to each other. After briefly taking stock of the spread of English into most domains of both the public sphere and people's private lives, we shall focus on the description of specific speech events in selected settings. We will conduct some empirical research into the forms and functions of English in Europe and see whether we can identify any consistent salient features.

Participants will be invited to choose a setting they are interested in and to gather their own data for description and discussion. A short reading list and an overview of possible themes will be made available to facilitate preparation for the first few sessions in the winter term. Assessment will be based on contributions to class discussion, an oral presentation and a written report.

NB: Participants' oral presentations will all take place during a Seminar Conference on Friday December 14th afternoon and all day Saturday December 15th, concurrently with Prof. Dalton-Puffer's and Prof. Ritt's seminar. Full participation in this seminar conference is essential, so please bear this in mind when registering for the seminar.