Singapore University of Social Sciences

English in Singapore

English in Singapore (ELG355)

Synopsis

What is Singapore English? What are its features and status in Singapore and in the region? This course aims to give students a substantial overview of Singapore English, as well as the ability to analyse and describe data from an interview with a Singaporean speaker of English. Students will be expected to make a recording of an interview with a speaker and then transcribe and describe in detail the pronunciation, grammar, lexis and discourse features found in that recording, based on the example analysis of the data of Hui Min presented in the textbook Singapore English (EUP, 2007). **Note: The ECA for this course may consist of a project that builds on data gathered in TMA01 and/or TMA02. Although RESIT students have already passed OCAS and will not submit new TMA work as part of their RESIT, these students may need to gather new data for the RESIT ECA, as specified in the guidelines of the new TMA(s). Any questions about this matter should be directed to the course AF or the programme team.**

Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every semester

Topics

  • World Englishes; Language Planning in Singapore
  • Variation in Singapore
  • Consonants and Vowels
  • Rythm, Stress, Intonation and Grammar
  • Discourse and Lexis
  • Current Status and Approaches to Variation

Learning Outcome

  • Appraise the future status of Singapore Colloquial English (Singlish) in Singapore as well as that of Singapore English in the context of Global Englishes.
  • Demonstrate recognition and understanding of the key linguistic features of Singapore English and its multicultural characteristics.
  • Analyze various opinions and attitudes on Singapore English, and in consideration of Singapore’s language policies.
  • Discuss the linguistic and cultural value of Singapore Colloquial English (Singlish).
  • Recommend a model of variation that best represents Singapore English.
  • Examine the everyday use of Singapore English.
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