Teaching English as an International Language

This Element offers a comprehensive account of the unprecedented spread of English as a global language by taking historical, sociolinguistic, and pedagogical perspectives. To realize this mission, it opens with an accessible discussion of the historical trajectory of the English language with qualitative and quantitative connections to its contemporary diversity in terms of forms, roles, functions, uses, users, and contexts of English as a global and multilingual franca. Built upon this synchronic-diachronic symbiosis, the discussion is complemented by an overview of major analytical paradigms and trends that promote systematical scrutiny of the English language and its sociolinguistic and educational implications. It ends by showcasing instructional practices, recommendations, reflective questions, and future directions for language educators to revamp their beliefs, commitments, and practices considering the changing needs and realities of the present-day global sociolinguistic ecology and individuals therein.

1. Background: more than a first, second, or foreign language; 2. From English to Englishes: how did we get here?; 3. English today: a truly global language; 4. Major paradigms and trends in teaching English as an international language; 5. Implications for language educators; 6. Practical applications for language educators; 7. Conclusion: implementing and documenting innovation; Appendices; References.