第九章美国英语.pptVIP

Nov.23,2010 American English The English language spread to numerous other parts of the world as a result of British colonization elsewhere and the spread of the former British Empire, which, by 1921, held sway over a population of about 470–570 million people: approximately a quarter of the worlds population. English-speaking areas are underlined in pink. Singapore English Indian English Australian English Nigerian English American English …… Differences in British and American English 4 Aspects Vocabulary Spelling Grammar Pronunciation Potentially embarrassing situations: “rubber” Potentially embarrassing situations: “pants” Potentially embarrassing situations: “bun” Confusing situation… Ask for chips in England, and you’ll get French Fries, not potato “crisps” Is there really a language barrier? In his history of the Second World War, Winston Churchill records that differences in the interpretation of the verb to table caused an argument between British and American planners. The British wanted a matter tabled immediately because it was important, and the Americans insisted it should not be tabled at all because it was important. In British English, the term means to discuss now (the issue is brought to the table), whereas in American English it means to defer (the issue is left on the table). Other confusing situations Asks you about football… …they mean soccer Asks you bring pudding… …they mean dessert Puts on a jumper… …they mean a sweater Translate this sentence! A note on schooling In the US, a public school is government funded In the US, a private school requires tuition In England, a public school requires tuition In England, a state school is government funded The same meaning is expressed through different linguistic forms 2. Spelling difference [Classroom practice] Step 1 Work in a group of 3-4 students; Step 2 Find one secretary to take notes and another reporter to report; Step 3 Find out any salient spelling features from Bri