Non-Native English
A new report commissioned by the British Council entitled English Next by David Graddol, a leading ELT researcher and author, highlights the fact that there are now more non-native English speakers than natives. The future of English is changed as a result. I'm not sure I agree with the subtitle of the research paper - Why global English may mean the end of 'English as a Foreign Language' and it reminds me why I decided to go teach English online.
Every day on the internet and on the streets millions of people of all nationalities are communicating in English. All power to the user and, if utility is a criteria, the language they use belongs to them. When they adapt it they make it grow. Borrowed words enrich communication.
Think food - from pasta through curry to stir-fry. Italians, Indians and Chinese wouldn't call what we buy and eat in Britain the real macoy but to us it's yummy and we've got no better words to describe it. What is the English word for Poppadom and how do you spell it? (Ask the experts)
British Council reports by David Graddol
