An international language

English is also hugely important as an international language and plays an important role even in countries where the UK has historically had little influence. It is learnt as the principal foreign language in most schools in Western Europe. It is also an essential part of the curriculum in far-flung places like Japan and South Korea, and is increasingly seen as desirable by millions of speakers in China. Prior to WW II, most teaching of English as a foreign language used British English as its model, and textbooks and other educational resources were produced here in the UK for use overseas. This reflected the UK's cultural dominance and its perceived ‘ownership’ of the English Language. Since 1945, however, the increasing economic power of the USA and its unrivalled influence in popular culture has meant that American English has become the reference point for learners of English in places like Japan and even to a certain extent in some European countries. British English remains the model in most Commonwealth countries where English is learnt as a second language. However, as the history of English has shown, this situation may not last indefinitely. The increasing commercial and economic power of countries like India, for instance, might mean that Indian English will one day begin to have an impact beyond its own borders.

( http://www.bl.uk/learning/langlit/sounds/casestudies/minority-ethnic/)

2. Read the text again and answer the questions. Substantiate your ideas using the information from the text. Discuss the questions in pairs.

1. What terms are used to describe a type of “General English”?

2. What are the main differences between British English and American English?

3. When and where were the differences first officially promoted?

4. Who was the author of “The American Spelling Book” and “An American Dictionary of the English Language”?

5. What was the influence of British Empire on the colonies and their languages?

6. Who added variety and diversity to the rich patchwork of accents and dialects spoken in the UK?

7. What are the new varieties of English?

8. What is the role of English as an international language?