TQUK TEFL | 2023

Assignment 1
Principles of Teaching English as a Foreign Language

Name:Amira Salman
1st sub 2nd sub
Assessment Criteria
1. Evaluate the extent of the Anglophone world, providing a range of examples

2. Explain the importance of English in economic, social and cultural terms and
why English is often a highly desirable language to learn for non-native
speakers.

3. Explain the origin of English as an Indo-European language and the status of

English as a Germanic language and the large influence of Romance
languages on English.

4. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of teaching methodologies

/philosophies

5. Evaluate how to match methodology to learner needs:

Yes / No Date 1st marker 2nd marker

Pass

Resubmission Needed

Pass On Resubmission

Fail On Resubmission
Overall Comment

NB: If you need to resubmit an assignment, make sure you hand in the original version and the
resubmitted version. Both versions need to be in your portfolio.

This is my own work. Signed _______________

Aim
The aim of this assignment is to make you Understand the current role of
English as a global language and its modern methodologies with their best
classroom practice.

Word limit: 1500-2000 words

The assignment must be written in continuous prose. Please use the following template to write
your assignment.

Part One (400 - 500 words) First submission

Evaluate the extent of the Anglophone world, providing a range of examples of:

Evaluation:
The Anglophone world encompasses a vast array of regions where English plays a significant role, from
being a native language to a key component in business and international relations.

 countries in which English is a first or native language

o Country 1: United States: With approximately 306 million total English speakers,
the U.S. has the highest number of native speakers.

o Country2: United Kingdom: Home to around 68 million native English speakers.

 countries in which English holds legal status as the primary language

 Country 1: Canada, where English is one of the two official languages and is the primary
language for most of the population, except for Quebec and Nunavut.

o Country2: Australia, where English is the de facto official language and is spoken
by the majority of the population

 countries in which English holds legal status as a secondary language

 Country 1: The Philippines, where English is one of two official languages and is widely
used in government, business, and education.

 Country2: India, where English is an associate official language and plays a significant
role in national, political, and commercial communication.
  countries and regions in which English is widely spoken as a business language

o Country / region 1: Singapore, where English is one of the official languages and is
the language of business and administration.

o Country / region 2: South Africa, where English is one of the official languages
and is predominant in business and media.

 regions and international bodies in which English is upheld as a recognised language

o Region / international body 1: The European Union, where English is one of the 24
official languages and is widely used for communication and documentation.

 Region / international body 2: The United Nations, where English is one of the six official
languages and is used in meetings, official documents, and daily communications.

The influence of English as a global lingua franca is evident across various domains, making it a
pivotal language in international diplomacy, business, and media. Its widespread use as a first,
second, or official language in numerous countries underscores its importance in the modern
world. English serves as a bridge connecting different cultures and facilitating global discourse,
reflecting the historical impact of the British Empire and the contemporary influence of the
United States in shaping the dynamics of the Anglophone sphere.

Part One (400 - 500 words) Resubmission

Evaluate the extent of the Anglophone world, providing a range of examples of:

Evaluation:

 countries in which English is a first or native language

Country 1:
Country2:
 countries in which English holds legal status as the primary language
Country 1:
Country2:
 countries in which English holds legal status as a secondary language
 Country 1:
Country2:
 countries and regions in which English is widely spoken as a business language
Country / region 1:
Country / region 2:
 regions and international bodies in which English is upheld as a recognised language
Region / international body 1:
Region / international body 2:

Part Two (400 - 500 words) First submission

Explain the importance of English in economic, social and cultural terms and why English is often a
highly desirable language to learn for non-native speakers.

The English language—a linguistic bridge spanning continents, cultures, and centuries—holds
immense significance in our interconnected world. Its impact reverberates across economic,
social, and cultural realms, making it a highly desirable language for non-native speakers. Let us
delve into the multifaceted importance of English:

Economic Significance:

1. Global Business and Trade:

o English serves as the lingua franca of international commerce. Companies
worldwide conduct negotiations, sign contracts, and collaborate using English.
o Multinational corporations rely on English proficiency for seamless
communication among diverse teams, suppliers, and clients.
o Research shows a direct correlation between a population’s English skills and a
country’s economic performance. As English proficiency improves, indicators like
gross national income (GNI) and GDP rise.
o Job seekers with exceptional English skills often earn 30-50% higher salaries
compared to their peers.
2. Globalization and Employment Opportunities:
o English proficiency unlocks a global job market. Individuals proficient in English
can seek employment opportunities beyond national borders.
o International teams collaborate remotely, accelerating business performance.
English proficiency enhances employability in this interconnected landscape.
3. Investment in Language Training:
o As English skills improve, salaries rise, creating a virtuous cycle. Governments and
individuals invest in language training, leading to economic growth.
o Northern European countries, recognizing this link, prioritize English education
for sustained economic success.

Social and Cultural Influence:

1. Global Communication and Dialogue:

o English enables international connections, mutual understanding, and friendships
 beyond borders.
o International organizations issue official statements in English, granting it
prestige.
o Personal and official interactions often occur in English, fostering dialogue and
cooperation.
2. Transforming Cultures and Lifestyles:
o English, especially through the internet, influences cultural trends, music,
fashion, and entertainment.
o Younger generations embrace English as a tool for self-expression and identity.
o English proficiency correlates with a higher Human Development Index,
reflecting improved education, literacy, and standards of living.
3. Education and Access to Information:
o English is the primary language for academic research, scientific publications, and
technological advancements.
o Learning in English provides access to a wealth of information, including scholarly
articles, online courses, and global knowledge repositories.
4. Tourism and Hospitality:
o English proficiency is essential for travelers, tour guides, and hospitality
professionals.
o Tourists navigate foreign destinations using English, enhancing their experiences.
5. Language of the Internet and Social Media:
o The internet thrives on English content. Social media, blogs, and websites
predominantly use English.
o English proficiency empowers individuals to participate in online communities
and access digital resources.

Conclusion:

English transcends mere language—it embodies opportunity, connection, and cultural

exchange. Non-native speakers recognize its pivotal role in personal growth, professional
success, and global understanding. As we navigate an interconnected world, proficiency in
English remains a beacon, illuminating paths toward prosperity and shared humanity

Part Two (400 - 500 words) Resubmission

Explain the importance of English in economic, social and cultural terms and why English is often a
highly desirable language to learn for non-native speakers.
 Part Three (400 - 500 words) First submission
Explain the origin of English as an Indo-European language and the status of English as a Germanic
language and the large influence of Romance languages on English.

1. Indo-European Languages family: background and origin

English, as a language, has a rich tapestry of historical influences that trace back to the Indo-
European language family. This family is a broad group of languages that stem from a common
ancestral tongue known as Proto-Indo-European, spoken approximately 5,000 years ago by
nomads in the southeast European plains. From this root, various language branches evolved,
including the Germanic languages, to which English belongs.

2. From Proto-Indo-European to Proto-Germanic

The transition from Proto-Indo-European to Proto-Germanic marked the beginning of the

Germanic roots of English. Proto-Germanic gave rise to various languages, including Old English,
which emerged with the migration of the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes to Britain. This period,
known as the Old English period (450-1100 CE), is characterized by a language that was almost
entirely Germanic in vocabulary and structure.

3. Emergence of Old English (Angles, Saxons, and Jutes)

Old English (also called Anglo-Saxon) developed in England after the migration of Germanic
tribes (Angles, Saxons, and Jutes) in the 5th century CE. It was influenced by the Celtic
languages spoken by the native Britons. Old English texts include epic poems like Beowulf.

4. The emergence of Middle English (Norse and Norman influence)

The Middle English period (1100-1500 CE) saw significant changes due to Norse and Norman
influences. The Norse invasions introduced many Old Norse words into the English lexicon, while
the Norman Conquest in 1066 brought a substantial influx of Old French, a Romance language,
into English. This period marked the beginning of the Latin infiltration and the Old French
connection, which significantly altered the English language, infusing it with Romance
vocabulary while retaining its Germanic grammar.

5. The Emergence of Early Modern English (Renaissance and Printing Press)

The Renaissance and the advent of the printing press in the Early Modern English period (1500 –
present) further solidified the status of English as a Germanic language, despite the large
influence of Romance languages. The Renaissance, a period of renewed interest in the arts and
sciences, brought an influx of Latin and Greek terms into English. The printing press helped
standardize English spelling and grammar, preserving its Germanic structure.
 6. Modern English (Colonialism and Globalisation)

Modern English, shaped by colonialism and globalization, has continued to absorb elements
from a multitude of languages, including Romance languages. The Romance cognate connection
is evident in the large number of English words that share roots with French, Italian, Spanish,
and other Romance languages. This is due to both direct borrowing from Latin during the
Renaissance and the Norman influence, which introduced French-derived terms into English.

In conclusion, English is an Indo-European language with a Germanic foundation that has been
significantly influenced by Romance languages, particularly through vocabulary. Its evolution
reflects a history of invasions, cultural shifts, and technological advancements that have
contributed to the language’s dynamic and hybrid character. The interplay between these
influences has created the English language as we know it today: a Germanic language richly
adorned with Romance elements.

1. Germanic Roots

English is a West Germanic language that originated from the Anglo-Frisian dialects brought to
Britain by Germanic invaders and settlers from what is now northwest Germany and the
Netherlands.

2. Old English Period (450-1100 CE)

Old English, also known as Anglo-Saxon, is the earliest form of the English language. It was
spoken and written in parts of what are now England and southern Scotland between the mid-
5th to the mid-12th century.

3. Middle English Period (1100-1500 CE)

Middle English developed from the late Old English in the wake of the Norman Conquest, which
introduced a substantial amount of Norman and French vocabulary into the language. This
period includes the Great Vowel Shift, which significantly changed the pronunciation of English.

4. Modern English Period (1500 – present)

Modern English has its roots in the Early Modern English of the Renaissance period. This stage of
the language saw standardization of spelling and grammar, and further vocabulary enrichment
from Latin and Romance languages due to the Renaissance revival of classical scholarship.

1. Latin Infiltration
Latin has had a profound influence on English, especially in terms of vocabulary. Many English
words are derived from Latin, either directly or through other Romance languages.

2. The Old French Connection

After the Norman Conquest, Old French became the language of the ruling class in England. This
led to many French words, particularly in law and government, entering the English language.

3. The Emergence of Middle and Modern French

The continued interaction between England and France, along with the Renaissance, brought
further French influence on the English language, including words related to art, culture, and
science.

4. The Romance Cognate Connection

English shares many cognates with Romance languages due to the shared Latin roots and the
historical influence of French on English. These cognates often have similar meanings but can
also show semantic divergence over time.

Part Three (400 - 500 words) Resubmission

Explain the origin of English as an Indo-European language and the status of English as a Germanic
language and the large influence of Romance languages on English.

Part Four (200 - 300 words) First submission

Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of teaching methodologies/philosophies, including:

Behaviourism:

Strengths:

1- Clear Objectives and Repetition:

o Behaviourism emphasizes observable behaviors and measurable outcomes.

o It sets clear learning objectives and focuses on repetition to reinforce learning.
 2- Effective for Skill Acquisition:

o Ideal for teaching basic skills, such as vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar
drills.
o Drilling helps learners internalize patterns.

Weaknesses

1- Lack of Creativity and Critical Thinking:

o Behaviourism often neglects creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

o It may not foster deeper understanding or higher-order thinking skills.

2- Overemphasis on Mechanical Responses:

o Rote memorization can lead to mechanical, context-free responses.

o Learners may struggle to apply knowledge in real-world situations.

Audiolingualism

Strengths:

1. Oral Proficiency and Fluency:

o Focuses on speaking and listening skills.
o Repetition and mimicry enhance fluency.

2. Cultural Context:
o Emphasizes cultural nuances and context.
o Useful for language learners planning to live in a target culture.

Weaknesses

1. Neglects Reading and Writing:

o Audiolingualism often sidelines reading and writing skills.
o Learners may struggle with reading comprehension and written expression.
 2. Limited Vocabulary Expansion:
o Relying on set phrases and patterns may hinder vocabulary growth.
o Learners may lack flexibility in expressing themselves.

The Natural Way

Strengths:

1. Authentic Communication:
o Prioritizes meaningful communication over rote memorization.
o Encourages learners to express themselves naturally.

2. Contextual Learning:
o Learners acquire language through real-life situations.
o Focuses on functional language for daily interactions.

Weaknesses

1. Grammar May Be Underemphasized:

o While communication is key, some learners may lack solid grammar foundations.
o Teachers need to strike a balance between fluency and accuracy.

2. Varied Progress Among Learners:

o Some learners may progress faster than others.
o Individualized attention is crucial.

Humanistic Approaches

Strengths:

1. Learner-Centered Approach:
o Recognizes learners’ unique needs, motivations, and interests.
o Encourages autonomy and self-directed learning.

2. Holistic Development:
o Focuses on emotional, social, and cognitive aspects.
 o Promotes learner well-being and confidence.

Weaknesses

1. Time-Intensive and Resource-Heavy:

o Tailoring instruction to individual learners requires more time and effort.
o May not be feasible in large classes.

2. Lack of Clear Structure:

o Humanistic approaches can lack a structured curriculum.
o Some learners may need more guidance.

Part Four (200 - 300 words) Resubmission

Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of teaching methodologies/philosophies, including:

Behaviourism:

Strengths:

1-
2-

Weaknesses

1-
2-

Audiolingualism

Strengths:

1-
2-

Weaknesses

1-
2-

The Natural Way

Strengths:

1-
2-

Weaknesses

1-
2-

Humanistic Approaches

Strengths:

1-
2-

Weaknesses

1-
2-

Part Five (100 - 200 words) First submission

Evaluate how to match methodology to learner needs:

Learner’s Profile: Young Children (Ages 5-8)

Recommended Method: The Natural Way (Communicative Approach)

Rationale: Young children learn best through meaningful interactions and play.

 The communicative approach encourages them to express themselves

naturally, fostering a love for language.
 Activities like storytelling, songs, and games align with their
developmental needs.

2. Learner’s Profile: Business Professionals

o Recommended Method: Humanistic Approaches (Tailored Instruction)
o Rationale:
 Business professionals have specific language needs related to their work
context.
 A learner-centered approach allows customization based on their
industry, role, and goals.
 Focusing on practical communication skills, negotiation, and presentations
is essential.
 3. Learner’s Profile: Tourists or Travelers
o Recommended Method: Audiolingualism (Oral Proficiency)
o Rationale:
 Tourists need practical language skills for travel situations.
 Audiolingualism emphasizes speaking and listening, helping them
navigate conversations, ask for directions, and order food.
 Cultural context is also vital for travelers.

4. Learner’s Profile: University Students Studying Literature

o Recommended Method: The Natural Way (Communicative Approach)
o Rationale:
 Literature students benefit from analyzing texts, discussing themes, and
expressing interpretations.
 The communicative approach allows them to engage deeply with literary
works.
 It encourages critical thinking and textual analysis.

Part Five (100 - 200 words) Resubmission

Evaluate how to match methodology to learner needs:

Learner’s Profile:

Recommended Method:

Rationale:

Word count: ______

Bibliography
(e.g. Thornbury, S (1999). How to teach grammar. Longman, UK)
TEFL handbook
https://www.thehistoryofenglish.com
https://www.britannica.com/topic/
Appendix