Varieties of English

English is a global language, but it’s not the same everywhere. From the bustling streets of New York to the serene landscapes of New Zealand, English takes on different forms. These variations, known as “varieties of English,” can affect how we teach and learn the language. In this lesson, we’ll explore how English differs around the world, why it’s important to choose the right language model, and how to use this knowledge in your teaching.

How do varieties of English differ?

English varies in three main ways: pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. Let’s look at each of these:

Pronunciation (Accents):

The way English is spoken can vary widely. For example, an American might say “tomato” as “tuh-MAY-to,” while a British person might say “tuh-MAH-to.”
Other accents, like Australian or Indian English, have their own unique sounds and rhythms.

Vocabulary:

Different regions use different words for the same thing. For instance, what Americans call a “sidewalk,” the British call a “pavement.” In Australia, you might hear “thongs” instead of “flip-flops.”
Sometimes, words can even mean different things. In the U.S., “pants” refer to trousers, but in the U.K., “pants” mean underwear!

Grammar:

Grammar rules can also vary. For example, in British English, it’s common to say, “I’ve got a car,” while in American English, you’d say, “I have a car.”
Some varieties of English use structures that might seem unusual to others. In Indian English, you might hear, “I am understanding this,” which is grammatically acceptable in that context.

A real-world example:
Imagine a student from Nigeria learning English. They might use phrases like “I am coming” to mean “I’ll be right back,” which is perfectly correct in Nigerian English but might confuse someone from the U.S.

How do varieties of English
matter for teachers and learners?

Understanding varieties of English is important because it helps teachers and learners make informed choices about which model to use. Here’s why:

Choosing a language model:

Teachers need to decide which variety of English to teach. For example, if you’re teaching in the U.S., American English might be the most practical choice. But if your students plan to work in the U.K., British English might be more useful.
Learners also need to think about their goals. Are they learning English to study in Canada, work in Australia, or travel in South Africa? Their choice of variety should match their needs.

Avoiding confusion:

Teaching a mix of varieties can confuse students. For example, if you switch between American and British spellings (like “color” vs. “colour”), students might struggle to remember which is which.
It’s also important to explain differences so students aren’t surprised when they encounter them. For instance, if you’re teaching British English, let students know that Americans say “elevator” instead of “lift.”

Respecting diversity:

English is a global language, and no single variety is “better” than another. It’s important to respect all forms of English and help students understand that differences are natural.

A real-world example:
A student learning British English might be confused when they hear an Australian say, “G’day, mate!” By explaining regional differences, you can prepare them for real-world interactions.

How is the knowledge of
varieties of English useful in planning and teaching?

Once you understand the varieties of English, you can use this knowledge to plan and teach more effectively. Here’s how:

Choose a consistent model:

Decide which variety of English to teach based on your students’ needs and stick to it. For example, if you’re teaching in the Philippines, where American English is widely used, focus on American vocabulary, spelling, and pronunciation.

Expose students to different varieties:

While it’s important to teach one variety consistently, it’s also helpful to expose students to other varieties. For example, you could play recordings of different accents or show videos from English-speaking countries around the world.

Teach key differences:

Highlight important differences between varieties. For instance, if you’re teaching British English, explain that Americans say “apartment” instead of “flat.”
Use real-life examples, like menus, signs, or advertisements, to show how English varies in different contexts.

Encourage flexibility:

Help students become flexible and adaptable. For example, if they’re used to American English but encounter British English in a movie, teach them strategies to understand and adapt.

A real-world example:
If you’re teaching a class of international students, you might focus on a neutral variety of English, like “International English,” which avoids regional slang and idioms. At the same time, you could introduce them to different accents through listening exercises or guest speakers.

Final thoughts

English is a rich and diverse language, and its many varieties reflect the cultures and histories of the people who speak it. As teachers, our job is to help students navigate this diversity and choose the variety that best suits their needs.

By understanding the differences between varieties of English, making informed choices about language models, and using this knowledge in our teaching, we can prepare students to communicate confidently in a globalized world.

So, whether your students are dreaming of studying in London, working in New York, or traveling the world, help them embrace the beauty of English in all its forms!

To your CELTA journal

What’s your experience with teaching or learning different varieties of English?
Reflect on your experience with teaching or learning different varieties of English. Write in your CELTA journal about the challenges you faced, such as differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, or grammar, and how you addressed them. Share specific examples of strategies you used to help learners navigate these variations and adapt to different English contexts.

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